While Kentucky continues to digest the huge news of Kenny Minchey’s commitment at quarterback, another major development in the Wildcats’ transfer portal pursuit came from On3 insider Steve Wiltfong, who
provided updated intel on two skill-position targets drawing heavy interest from UK.
According to Wiltfong, Kentucky is in a strong position for big-time portal wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr., who is widely regarded as one of the best available pass-catchers in the portal. Moorе has taken quick visits to Ohio State and Louisville, and the only remaining scheduled stop is a visit to Colorado, leaving Kentucky in a prime spot as things shape up.
Wiltfong specifically cites UK’s standing as “prime position” for Moore.
At the same time, Kentucky is battling Colorado for former Texas running back CJ Baxter, another highly-regarded transfer prospect. Wiltfong notes that the Wildcats are “working on agreeing to terms” with Baxter and that, from a pure football standpoint, he likes Kentucky’s position right now in that recruitment.
A junior wide receiver coming from Texas, Moore has emerged as one of the most productive and sought-after pass-catchers in the transfer portal. Over his time with the Longhorns (2023–2025), he appeared in 36 games with multiple starts, totaling 77 receptions for 988 yards and 11 touchdowns.
A former four-star recruit out of St. John Bosco High School (California), Moore brings proven Big 12 experience, polished route-running, and reliable production. Moore visited Kentucky over the weekend, further solidifying the Wildcats’ standing as they battle Ohio State, Louisville, and Colorado for his commitment.
Baxter is a former five-star recruit and highly regarded running back out of Edgewater High School (Florida) who arrived at Texas with massive expectations. He made an immediate impact as a true freshman, showcasing his physical running style before injuries slowed his momentum in subsequent seasons.
Now in the transfer portal with two years of eligibility remaining, Baxter is viewed as a powerful, downhill runner capable of making an immediate impact in the SEC. Like Moore, Baxter also visited Kentucky over the weekend, as the Wildcats continue to battle Colorado in what appears to be a tightening race!
As Kentucky fans continue to ride the momentum from the quarterback commitment, the potential additions of Moore and Baxter have only added to the buzz. With both players on campus over the weekend and positive national reporting from Steve Wiltfong, the Wildcats appear firmly positioned to further reshape their offense in Will Stein’s first full offseason.
