Kentucky Specialist Jackson Smith Enters the Transfer Portal

For the second time in as many hours, a Kentucky football player has entered into the transfer portal. Jackson Smith, a kicker and punter, announced he will be leaving the Wildcats after two seasons in Lexington.

Smith was a decorated kicker during his four years at Boyle County High School. A three-time first-team All-State selection, he was the top kicker/punter in the 2022 recruiting class by ProKicker.com. He helped the Rebels win back-to-back state championships in 2021-22.

A legacy recruit, his father Andy Smith was an All-SEC punter in the late 90s. He set a school record in 1999 by averaging 43.7 yards per punt.

Jackson Smith was a two-time member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll, but he never saw any action for the Wildcats. Louie Matsakis was a quality control assistant who managed special teams when Smith arrived at Kentucky. Jay Boulware has since taken over the special teams room, leading to significant personnel turnover.

Smith has three years of eligibility remaining and is pitching himself to prospective programs as a jack of all trades who can punt, kick-off, and act as a holder. Best of luck to him in his next endeavor.

Kentucky Football Departures in the Spring Transfer Portal

Since the conclusion of Kentucky spring practice, so far five players have entered the transfer portal.

P/K Jackson Smith (Entered the portal on April 22)
WR Ardell Banks (Entered the portal on April 22)
WR Raymond Cottrell (Entered the portal on April 16)
WR Cole Lanter (Entered the portal on April 16)
RB La’Vell Wright (Entered the portal on April 10)

In addition to KSR’s Transfer Portal Tracker, you can follow every move around college football with On3’s Transfer Portal wire and by following On3’s Transfer Portal account on Twitter.

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