Illinois State Transfer DE Steven Curtis Sets Kentucky Visit

Illinois State transfer defensive end Steven Curtis is in the process of finalizing a visit to Kentucky. He told KSR+ that he will visit from Dec. 18-19.

The 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive lineman told KSR+ that he was recently contacted by Kentucky running back coach Jay Boulware. Boulware then connected him with defensive coordinator Brad White.

“I’m really pushing for Kentucky because that’s really close to home,” Curtis said. “It’s an area I’m pretty familiar with and I love the area over there. I’m excited to get over there.”

Curtis said he loves Kentucky’s location, competition in the SEC, and everything coaching staff has pitched to him about player development. He believes he can make an impact right away.

“That’s what I’m looking to do at whatever school I go to,” he said. “I’m not worried about money or anything like that. I want to go to a place where I can make an impact and create a winning culture.”

Curtis is intrigued by how Kentucky uses its EDGE rushers. He believes the variety of packages fits him well.

“They rush their EDGE defenders a lot, have a lot of different fronts, and move around a lot,” he said. “I really like their style of defense. I like how they blitz, their base defense, and how they put pressure on the quarterback.”

Curtis has two years of eligibility remaining. He also has a redshirt year.

What’s Next?

Steven Curtis is ready to take several visits before his transfer decision. He’s set to visit Minnesota (Dec. 12-15), Cincinnati (Dec. 16-17), and Boston College (Dec. 20-22).

“It’s been moving pretty fast,” Curtis said. “It’s kind of surreal, to be honest, but it’s really exciting. I’m just excited for all the opportunities to come.”

Rutgers is another school to reach out, but he hasn’t set a date. Curtis said he’s looking to commit sometime before Jan. 1, likely around the week of Christmas.

“The main factor is going to be if I can get on the field early when I get there and compete for a starting spot,” Curtis said. That’s going to be the biggest thing for me. Two, a sense of community within the school and a team that’s really together. I want a great community and a winning culture. Obviously, everybody hates to lose, so that’s really what I’m looking for in my next school. 

Steven Curtis’ Game

Illinois State transfer defensive end Steven Curtis finished the 2024 season with 47 total tackles, five sacks, and three forced fumbles. He also had one pass deflection.

“I like to rush the passer, so I feel like that’s a great strength of mine, as well as my speed,” Curtis said. “I have a specific kind of play style. I play differently than most ends. I also am very good at setting edges. Those are some things I excel at.”

Curtis is looking to improve his strength and speed. He wants to still be fast while getting stronger.

“I’m really excited to go over there and visit,” he said. “I hope we can get something set up soon. I’m excited to get in the community and see what it looks like.”