Devin Leary excited by Kentucky's running back depth entering the season

Kentucky has always had a steady, if not very successful, overall rushing attack under Mark Stoops. That trend isn’t changing either considering their latest collection of runners in the backfield.

UK QB Devin Leary spoke about the Wildcat’s depth at running back during a media availability a week ago. He sees plenty of competition within the room but their combinations with one another also interests him.

“(They’re) very competitive, very competitive,” Leary said. “They kind of, each one of them, bring their own aspect to the game, which is really cool to see.”

Leary then went one by one by naming several of the Wildcat’s backs. Two of them, Ray Davis and Demie Sumo-Karngbaye, arrive from the transfer portal and each provides something different from their previous experiences. Meanwhile, at least two more have experience while wearing the blue and white while another could add a whole different dimension as he returns from a season-ending injury.

“Obviously, Ray having great success in his past. He’s coming in with his head down ready to work. A guy like JuTahn (McClain)? (He) has a ton of snaps under his belt being able to play in Coach Coen’s offense in ’21. La’Vell (Wright) did really good things today. He keeps getting better as more of a power back,” Leary said.

“Then even seeing guys like Ramon Jefferson, battling through some injuries. And now he looks good as new, which is really cool to see,” noted Leary. “On top of that, you have Demie Sumo-Karngbaye coming in, kind of bringing that versatile attack to the passing game a little bit.”

Kentucky has had at least one star back over the last few years with Benny Snell Jr. and Chris Rodriguez carrying the rock. Now, in 2023, that position might eventually be best suited to work by committee considering all the options that Leary believes that they have.

“I think it’s cool to see how they all collaborate with each other and make each other better. They definitely each have their own aspects of the game that are going to help us,” said Leary.

Leary reveals young wide receivers that are standing out

Devin Leary took some time to shoutout his wide receivers as he prepares for his first season with the Kentucky Wildcats.

What a difference a year makes, as at this time in 2022 Leary was leading the NC State Wolfpack. Now firmly entrenched in Lexington, it’s evident the star quarterback is excited with who he’ll be throwing the ball to in 2023.

“I think someone that stands out on film is Anthony Brown, for sure, and you know, even sometimes you forget how young Dane Key is. It’s only his second year playing college football, but he carries himself like a vet,” explained the Kentucky quarterback. “Then even guys like Khamari Anderson, Josh Kattus. It’s really cool to see them you know, wanting to take that next step for this season.”

That’s a nice group of talented pass catchers the Wildcats have assembled. Leary can sling the rock all over the field, so they’ll have plenty of opportunities to make their names known in households throughout the country, especially if Kentucky reaches their lofty expectations.