Devin Leary shares how he is earning Kentucky player's respect

Being the new guy isn’t always easy. It’s even harder when, eventually, you’re expected to be the leader of the group that’s already in place. That’s the position that Devin Leary finds himself in with Kentucky after transferring to Lexington from NC State to be the Wildcat’s next quarterback.

With spring practice underway, Leary once again broke down how he’s attacking the challenge of being a leader even though he’s a fresh face in the locker room. In his eyes, it starts with showing his teammates who he is and what he’s willing to lay on the line for them. From there, it’s about him accepting the challenge that comes with that role and being the voice that UK is going to need him to be.

“I think it’s day by day,” Leary said. “Being the same person every day. Not getting too high, not getting too low. And showing my teammates I’m here for them. Every single day, I’m gonna lay it all on the line for them.”

“At times, when a voice needs to be heard, if I need to step up in that role? That’s a step I need to take,” said Leary. “I need to be better. I need to continue to work on my craft every day and earn those guys’ respect. But, at the same time, emerge into that role where they expect me to be.”

Leary has a resume that’s more than worthy of respect. He became one of the best QB1s in the nation with the Wolfpack over the last four years. In his collegiate career, Leary has thrown for just over 6,800 yards for 62 touchdowns and 16 interceptions on a 58.7% completion rate. That production led NC State to an 18-12 record in his appearances. However, 14 of those victories came in the last two seasons.

Still, that’s what he did while he was in Raleigh. This a whole new terrain for Leary as a person and a player. It features all kinds of changes from conference and location to coaching staff and teammates.

Mark Stoops is looking for leaders right now and it’s on Leary to be that because of his experience as well as his position. That’s why, at this point, it’s all about Leary showing his new program what he’s about as he goes out and proves it each day. From there, he can come into his own in the role they’ll need him to play come this fall.