JQ Hardaway wants to reward Kentucky's coaching staff

Cincinnati transfer JQ Hardaway was added to the Kentucky roster following the 2022 season to fill a big depth need at cornerback. Unfortunately, the former four-star recruit had a rough debut year in Lexington.

As a true sophomore in 2023, JQ Hardaway played over 350 defensive snaps for Kentucky with one starting assignment but had some clear struggles. Hardaway saw playing time disappear in Week 4 when Jordan Robinson returned from injury. But as the other reserve cornerbacks struggled, Hardaway found playing time later in the season but did not have the year he wanted.

The Phenix City (Ala.) Central product recorded 28 tackles and four pass breakups plus allowing 18 receptions on 26 targets for 222 yards, according to PFF data. Hardaway admitted that his first season in the SEC did not go great, but co-defensive coordinator Chris Collins has never stopped believing in the class of 2022 prospect.

“Coach Collins has been great. I appreciate Coach Collins working with me last year because I expected my season to be better than what it was, but he still worked with me,” Hardaway said. “Man, he still believed in me. I’m about to showcase why he should believe in me this season.”

The junior cornerback was spotted running with Kentucky’s second unit during open practices and likely received a bigger role in Saturday’s scrimmage with Michigan transfer DJ Waller Jr. sitting out with a minor injury. Kentucky needs to develop depth, and JQ Hardaway will be a big part of that this fall.

Collins mentioned that there is “a learning curve” for any new additions, and sometimes players need time to develop. Over the summer, Kentucky did some technical work with JQ Hardaway in an attempt to allow the player to use his length and play bigger in coverage. Kentucky is hopeful that equal better play on the field.

The Wildcats will need JQ Hardaway this season. JQ Hardaway wants to reward Kentucky’s coaching staff for their work and believes a breakthrough could be coming.