Auburn Offensive Line Transfer Reportedly Visits Kentucky

Kentucky’s lengthy official visitor list received a big addition late Friday night. According to Rivals’ Justin Rowland, former Auburn offensive lineman Tashawn Manning is in Lexington to check out the Wildcats’ campus.

Manning played offensive guard for the Tigers. He started in every game at left guard in 2020 and played in eight games in 2021. Manning entered the transfer portal shortly after Bryan Harsin parted ways with offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. A native of Apopka, Fl., Manning was a three-star recruit in the class of 2016 when he chose the Tigers over Tennessee, North Carolina, Pittsburgh, and Louisville.

Manning’s Inspiring Story

Manning is not the first lineman to switch from defense to offense. That change was just a minor blip in his early collegiate career. On Thanksgiving Day of his senior year of high school, Manning was diagnosed with leukemia. He underwent eight months of chemo and continued fighting with the promise that he could still play at Auburn at the conclusion of his treatment. Declared cancer free in July of 2016, Manning enrolled at Auburn the following January.

“The one thing I’ll look back on through the ups and downs is always trying to keep a positive outlook on life,” he said. “Whatever I did on and off the field, I just tried to enjoy the experience while I was in the moment because you don’t get these moments back. From play to play, day to day, I just tried to take everything in and just tried to make the most of it every day.”

Manning progressively improved his strength and stamina following his victory over cancer. He received his first playing time in 2018 and earned a starting spot two seasons later.

Kentucky’s Offensive Line Situation

The Big Blue Wall will lose two significant pieces in 2022 — Darian Kinnard and Luke Fortner. The latter’s absence might require Eric Wolford to move some players around. Midseason All-American right guard Eli Cox will likely kick down to center, the same move Fortner made last offseason, leaving a hole at right guard. Jager Burton could fill that vacancy, or Manning could step into that spot.

However, Kentucky might need Manning at left guard. When Dare Rosenthal or Kinnard were banged up, Wolford turned to Kenneth Horsey. Depending on Rosenthal’s draft decision and Kiyaunta Goodwin‘s commitment, the Wildcats might need Horsey to play offensive tackle full-time next season, providing Manning another opportunity.

The addition of Manning to Kentucky’s guest list means there are five transfer portal prospects visiting Lexington this weekend. It’s safe to say that Mark Stoops is hitting the portal hard this offseason. At least one of those guys appears to be enjoying his visit.

#BBN what y’all think? pic.twitter.com/Ybb5t5332q

— Tayvion Robinson (@RobinsonTayvion) December 11, 2021