Former Tennessee running back Dee Beckwith transfers to Kentucky

Former Tennessee running back Dee Beckwith has transferred to Kentucky, it was reported Tuesday. Beckwith, who entered the transfer portal back in January, was seen listed on the Wildcats roster as somewhat of a surprise.

At 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, the sophomore transfer figures to make an impact in Lexington next season either in the backfield or elsewhere. His stature is such that Kentucky could even ask him to play fullback or tight end if it wanted.

A four-star prospect in the 2020 recruiting class according to the On3 Consensus, Beckwith ranked as the No. 32 running back and No. 329 overall player. He started at wide receiver in Knoxville, then slid over to running back. He also has logged time on defense and special teams. Beckwith totaled just 27 yards on four carries across his first two seasons.

Beckwith’s versatility at the SEC level stems from his time in high school. As a senior for Florence (Al.) High School he played quarterback, receiver and running back, tallying 1,055 rushing yards, 589 passing yards and 526 receiving yards to go along with 27 total touchdowns. He earned first team All-State honors and also lettered in basketball and track and field.

Dee Beckwith wasn’t the only transfer running back to join Kentucky on Tuesday, however. The Wildcats also brought in Sam Houston State’s Ramon Jefferson, a second-team FCS All-American this past season. Jefferson rushed for 1,155 yards and 13 touchdowns on the way to his All-American honors.

The transfer additions are much needed as starting running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. could miss some time to start the year after his arrest for DUI on May 8. If that ends up being the case, Kentucky will likely be glad it added both Beckwith and Jefferson.

The Wildcats are set to open the 2022 season on Sept. 3 against the Miami (OH) Redhawks.