Darian Kinnard: How Kentucky Replaces the Kansas City Chief

After flirting with the NFL a year ago, Darian Kinnard returned to Lexington for his senior season. He was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the No. 145 overall pick in the beginning of the fifth round.

Kinnard is one of the most distinguished offensive linemen in program history after earning consensus All-American status in 2021. The right tackle played in 46 career games including 39 consecutive starts. The best ability is availability and Kinnard’s steadiness in the lineup was a positional benefit for Coach Mark Stoops. He was also frequently listed as one of the nation’s top run blockers. Kinnard was a nasty technician that thrived in UK’s celebrated Big Blue Wall. 

Replacing Kinnard is a tough task for first year offensive line coach Zach Yenser. Guard Kenneth Horsey served as the team’s third tackle a year ago, which stunted growth for the future. Jeremy Flax appears to have locked down the right tackle spot following spring practice. Flax was a highly sought after four-star junior college prospect that appeared in eleven contests in 2021. The 6-foot-6, 356-pound junior appears to be more confident under Yenser and has taken the necessary strides for the Detroit, Michigan to step in and produce for the Cats this fall. 

What Does All This Mean? 

Kinnard was a longtime starter and performed at an extremely high level for several seasons. History will reflect on the All-American as one of, if not the best, offensive tackles in program history. As you can imagine, expecting that level of play in a replacement is not realistic. Jeremy Flax is up next and seems to have newfound confidence and motivation under Zach Yenser. 

Darian Kinnard’s professional approach to the game of football started the moment he stepped on campus. Replacing a legend is not easy. Tackle is a spot that is considered to be a major concern going into 2022. All eyes will be on Flax when Miami (Ohio) visits Kroger Field in September. Kinnard is a UK Hall of Famer.