Kentucky makes top 9 for Winton Woods CB Jermaine Mathews

Kentucky didn’t land a commitment from one of Winton Woods’ (OH) cornerbacks earlier this week, but could his teammate be on the way instead?

On Sunday afternoon, three-star class of 2023 cornerback Jermaine Mathews dropped his top 9 on social media where the Wildcats made the cut. Checking in at 6-foot, 175 pounds, the Cincinnati product is considered the No. 650 overall player according to the On3 Consensus and the 15th best high school junior from the state of Ohio. Along with Kentucky, Mathews listed Indiana, Maryland, West Virginia, Pittsburgh, Washington, Cincinnati, Illinois, and Rutgers as the other schools in contention for his services.

Where will I land 🤯🤯🤯? pic.twitter.com/OUV0liBsSa

— Jermaine Mathews (@Jr2Maine) April 3, 2022

Mathews’ fellow teammate at Winton Woods, class of 2023 cornerback Cameron Calhoun, was once thought to be a lock to pick the ‘Cats when the latter made his announcement earlier this week. However, the three-star DB shockingly chose West Virginia, even pulling the ole switcharoo with his commitment video. Calhoun is ranked higher in the On3 Consensus than Mathews at No. 542 overall and the 13th best high school junior in Ohio.

Sources told KSR shortly after Calhoun’s announcement that the choice was likely to be Kentucky before the staff asked him to push back the decision date. There is still a possibility he returns to campus in the future though as UK continues to keep its options at defensive back open.

But back to Mathews, sources tell KSR that he would be a committable prospect if he ultimately chooses Kentucky, despite being ranked a tad lower than his Winton Woods teammate. Mathews holds additional offers from the rest of his top eight along with the likes of Louisville and Vanderbilt. Ohio State continues to show significant interest as well, although no offer has come through as of yet.

Mathews was in Lexington at the same as Calhoun last weekend for a campus visit where he meet with defensive backs coach Chris Collins and associate head coach Vince Marrow. He also came to campus back in the fall for an additional unofficial visit.

Great Day in Lexington thank you again 🔵⚪️ @CoachC_Collins @vincemarrow @UKCoachStoops #BBN pic.twitter.com/8gH1wZr5qW

— Jermaine Mathews (@Jr2Maine) March 26, 2022

Kentucky is trying to keep the Winton Woods to Lexington connection alive and well with Mathews (and by extent, Calhoun). A pair of former Wildcats have already come through the program out of Winton Woods in Mike Edwards and Chris Oats.

Could Mathews be the next?