Mark Stoops calls Devin Leary a natural leader

It didn’t take long for Devin Leary to adjust to Kentucky football, according to head coach Mark Stoops.

The former NC State quarterback will be in charge of a Wildcats’ offense needing to replace Will Levis, now with the Tennessee Titans. No better man to be an instant replacement in 2023.

Stoops talked about Leary’s transition into Kentucky and why it was seamless.

“Devin is a very natural leader,” Stoops said. “He doesn’t overdo it. He still wants to work and take care of his own backyard. And ultimately, you know, finding his voice and finding that leadership role to whatever level it goes to. It’ll happen authentically in time.”

Leary’s best season came in 2021: 3,433 yards, 35 touchdowns, five interceptions and a 65.7% completion percentage. 2022 was full of injuries and he was limited to just six games.

Over the course of 30 games at NC State, Leary finished with 6,807 yards, 62 touchdowns, 16 interceptions and a 60.2% completion percentage.

As a member of the Class of 2018, Leary was a four-star recruit out of Sicklerville (N.J.) Timber Creek, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 8 overall prospect in the state, the No. 29 quarterback in the class and the No. 348 overall prospect in the class.

“[Devin is] a guy that competes, competes at a high level. I love the way he goes to work. He has a lot of confidence. He has a chip on his shoulder, which I like,” Stoops said during SEC Media Days. “You know, obviously for him, getting his season cut short a year ago with injury didn’t sit well with him. So he’s very anxious to get out there and lead.”

Leary gets to enjoy the services of Dane Key and Barion Brown. As true freshmen, the two went on to combine for 87 receptions, 1,147 yards and 10 touchdowns — nearly equal to half (2,406 yards and 19 touchdowns) of Will Levis‘ stats in 2022. They’ll certainly make Leary’s job easier.

“I feel like just the mindset that he has, a tough kid and a Jersey kid, and the way he grew up, he fits right in with our culture,” Stoops said. “And he’s been extremely accurate. He’s one of those guys that maybe a year ago at times would completely wow you with his arm ability and the strength that he has.

“Devin is the type of guy that can make all the throws, but he’ll also put it in some spots or throw it and layer it in some spots that will wow you. I’ve been impressed, and excited to see him continue to grow.”