Washington State defensive line transfer David Gusta commits to Kentucky

Washington State defensive line transfer David Gusta has committed to Kentucky, he told On3’s Hayes Fawcett. Gusta was one of the more sought-after players in the NCAA transfer portal this offseason, gaining attention from multiple SEC programs. Ultimately, Kentucky won out in a huge offseason victory for head coach Mark Stoops.

“I thought it was a good fit here,” Gusta told On3’s Steve Wiltfong on his commitment. “Ultimately the coaching staff. I thought Coach Stewart was a great person. The DC Coach White, he was very charismatic. When we sat down and talked ball it was all really similar staff. Ultimately I want to play SEC ball but I wanted to play for a program that fits me.”

To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire.

Gusta just wrapped up his fourth season of college football, having one more year of eligibility remaining. He arrived at Washington State ahead of the 2021 season but did not make any appearances, taking a redshirt.

Back in 2023 was when Gusta really began to take a role with the Cougars. In his two years as a starter, the defensive lineman has recorded 51 tackles, 5.0 tackles for a loss, and 1.5 sacks.

Solid production for him and what Kentucky will need moving forward. A nice addition in the trenches in what will be a pivotal season for the program.

Kentucky loses wide receiver to NCAA transfer portal

Kentucky wide receiver transfer Hardley Gilmore has committed to Nebraska, per On3’s Pete Nakos.

He follows fellow UK teammate and fellow WR Dane Key to Lincoln to play for Matt Rhule and the Cornhuskers. Reports earlier this week stated that Gilmore was considering a return to Lexington, but has since joined his cohort in Lincoln.

The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and Twitter account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.

Gilmore is the latest wideout the leave the Wildcats football program, of course re-joining forces with Key next season, as well as standout playmaker and kick returner Barion Brown, who has since committed to play for LSU and Brian Kelly.

Together, Brown, Key and Gilmore were three of Kentucky’s leading receivers in 2024. The UK offense struggled mightily in the passing game this past season, which likely led to the mass departure out wide.

On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this report