Josh Paschal: How Kentucky Replaces the Detroit Lion

Kentucky defensive end Josh Paschal was selected by the Detroit Lions in the second round with the No. 46 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Paschal completed his Kentucky career as one of the most celebrated leaders in program history. The four-year letter winner is the only UK player to be named team captain in three seasons. He played in 52 career games with 37 starts. Paschal registered 139 career tackles, 37 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, 12 QB hurries, 3 forced fumbles, and 3 blocked kicks. His 107 career quarterback pressures rank second to Josh Allen’s 121. Paschal earned Academic All-American honors as well as being named All-SEC in 2021. 

There is no replacing Josh Paschal. His unquestionable leadership and courageous off the field perseverance left a timeless legacy. From beating cancer to blocking kicks, Paschal’s impact on Kentucky football and the commonwealth is immeasurable.

However, the show must go on. 6-foot-4, 310-pound sophomore Tre’vonn Rybka is the early favorite to become the Cats’ starter at defensive end. Rybka played in twelve games a year ago with one start. He totaled 15 tackles, and two quarterback hurries. His first career start was against Iowa in the Citrus Bowl. He accumulated four tackles and a sack in the Cat’s win over the Hawkeyes. Joining Rybka is Ohio State transfer Darrion Henry-Young. The sophomore displayed adept pass rushing skills during spring practice but is a bit light and requires weight and strength gains.

What Does All This Mean? 

For his play on the field and sterling example off, Josh Paschal is a UK All-Timer and one of the most beloved Wildcats ever. Replacing his leadership will be a difficult proposition. Tre’vonn Rybka flashed at times in 2021. It’s difficult to gauge his improvement from the spring game given the contest’s rules and format. However, it’s imperative that Rybka takes the proverbial next step. Darrion Henry-Young is an exciting transfer with an exceptionally high ceiling. He needs to gain weight and strength, but he will certainly factor in the fall. 

Much like Luke Fortner, Paschal’s leadership and example will be sorely missed. Expect UK to fill his shoes with multiple defensive ends that are situationally utilized.