Kentucky’s 2026 football recruiting class has suffered its first major setback.
The Kentucky Wildcats’ 2026 football recruiting class has suffered its first major setback.
Four-star offensive tackle Jarvis Strickland, a standout from Paducah (KY), has decommitted from the Wildcats, according to Steve Wiltfong of On3. Strickland, who plays at Paducah Tilghman High School, was the first player to commit to Kentucky’s 2026 class back in March.
Strickland’s decommitment is a notable loss for the Wildcats, as the 6-foot-6, 315-pound lineman was viewed as a foundational piece of the class and someone Kentucky hoped to build around. While no specific reason was given for the decision, it’s clear the rising senior is reassessing his recruitment.
With Strickland stepping away, Kentucky’s 2026 class now includes seven known commitments, led by safety Messiah Tilson (Rockford, IL) and cornerback Jordan Crutchfield (Vero Beach, FL), both of whom are top-500 national recruits. The class also includes skill position talent like wide receivers Prince Jean and Davis McCray, along with offensive lineman Cameron Miller and running back Delvecchio “Deuce” Alston II.
Despite the early blow, the Wildcats will look to rebound and keep building momentum with a class that still features solid depth and potential.
Strickland will now be one of the most highly sought-after offensive linemen in the region as his recruitment reopens.