The dual-sport Gatorade Player of the Year picks the Wildcats over Alabama, Oregon, and Arkansas.
Mark Stoops and the Kentucky Wildcats scored a major win on the recruiting trail, landing a commitment from 4-star quarterback Matt Ponatoski in the class of 2026. Ponatoski made the announcement on Sunday while saying he will play football and baseball for the Cats.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound standout from Cincinnati Archbishop Moeller chose the Wildcats over finalists Alabama, Arkansas, and Oregon.
Ponatoski is one of the most decorated multi-sport athletes in the country. Earlier this year, he was named both the Gatorade Ohio Football Player of the Year and the Gatorade Ohio Baseball Player of the Year, which is a rare double honor achieved by only a handful of elite athletes, including legends like Joe Mauer and Randy Moss.
On the football field, Ponatoski’s junior season was nothing short of spectacular. He passed for over 4,000 yards and threw 56 touchdowns to just three interceptions, leading Moeller to a 14-win season and a trip to the Division I state championship game. His combination of arm talent, poise, and athleticism makes him one of the most sought-after quarterback prospects in the 2026 cycle.
A dual-threat on the diamond as well, Ponatoski batted .437 with 29 RBIs and 22 runs scored, helping lead his team to a top seed in the Ohio state tournament. He also recorded 10 stolen bases and two saves as a pitcher.
With his commitment, Kentucky secures one of the premier athletes in the country and adds a game-changing talent to its quarterback room of the future. Ponatoski’s decision signals the Wildcats’ growing influence in Ohio and on the national recruiting stage.
Moeller Quarterback Matt Ponatoski picks Kentucky.
The reigning Gatorade Ohio Football *and* Baseball Player of the Year will play both for the Wildcats. pic.twitter.com/4dyVWy80wt
— Charlie Clifford (@char_cliff) July 7, 2025