Kentucky RB Ramon Jefferson likely to miss season with torn ACL

Kentucky is going to be down another running back against Florida this weekend.

According to KSR’s Matt Jones, UK running back Ramon Jefferson has a torn ACL and is likely to miss the rest of the 2022 season. Jefferson, who transferred from Sam Houston State, left the Wildcats’ season-opening win against Miami (OH) over the weekend following his second carry. He did not return.

Jefferson can apply for a medical redshirt and possibly return for another season of college football if it is accepted.

Source tells KSR that RB Ramon Jefferson tore his ACL

He is likely to miss the season but will try to rehab for faster recovery. He may also ask NCAA for another year

— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) September 7, 2022

The ‘Cats will be in Gainesville on Saturday for a matchup against No. 12 Florida. Kentucky is now likely to be without Jefferson and starting running back Chris Rodriguez Jr., who was not listed on the depth chart. Starting linebacker Jordan Wright is also expected to miss Saturday’s game.

If Rodriguez is out, UK will rely on a running back group of Kavosiey Smoke, La’Vell Wright, and JuTahn McClain (who was carried off the field in the fourth quarter of Saturday’s game due to injury). Junior tailback Mike Drennen and Tennessee transfer Dee Beckwith will also be available should the ‘Cats need them.

Jefferson was expected to share a significant portion of the snaps at running back this season, particularly in the absence of Rodriguez. He amassed over 1,900 yards across 22 games at the FCS level with Sam Houston State, leading the Bearkats to a 2021 championship. Unfortunately, Kentucky will have to look elsewhere for that production.