Kiyaunta Goodwin, 5-Star Offensive Tackle, will sign with Kentucky

The long wait is over. Kiyaunta Goodwin’s high-profile recruitment has reached a conclusion after an eventful National Signing Day. Goodwin’s day began at The Star in Frisco, Tx. He told those at the All-American Bowl and on Watch Stadium he was not yet ready to make a decision. Goodwin and his mentor Chris Vaughn then flew back to Louisville to announce at Aspirations Gym that he will sign with Kentucky.

A five-star prospect, Goodwin is the No. 19 overall player in the On3 Consensus rankings and the second-ranked offensive tackle. A Louisville native, the 6-foot-8, 325-pound offensive lineman spent his last two seasons playing football across the river at Charlestown High School.

Never a Doubt

There was plenty of anxiety entering the home stretch, especially after Wednesday’s flip-flopping, yet it all went according to script. Kiyaunta committed to UK in April, with the caveat that he would take all of his official visits before ultimately reaching a final decision. Despite attending all but one UK home game at Kroger Field as an unofficial visitor, some across the BBN grew more and more concerned following each official visit elsewhere.

Goodwin took official visits to Florida State, Alabama, Michigan, Texas A&M and one final trip to Michigan State. Jimbo Fisher’s in-home visit raised eyebrows. Kiyaunta’s last visit to East Lansing drew the most concern, as Mel Tucker put on the fullcourt press to poach the longtime Kentucky commit.

Ultimately, Vince Marrow saved the day for UK. The biggest signee he’s ever secured as a recruiter, both literally and metaphorically speaking, Kentucky could not have won this battle without Marrow. He began cultivating a relationship with Kiyaunta in seventh grade, a relationship that never strained when Goodwin gained weight and struggled to consistently perform. Vince played the long game to perfection.

What Kiyaunta is Bringing to Kroger Field

Thanks to Marrow’s recruiting efforts, Kentucky has an offensive tackle with first-round NFL Draft potential. He has all of the tools to be an elite offensive tackle — large hands, a violent first punch, long arms and athleticism to move in the trenches.

The tools are only good when used in the right setting. Goodwin has limited experience against high-level competition. Playing in the SEC for a no-nonsense, veteran offensive line coach in Eric Wolford is exactly what the young prospect needs. Goodwin is wasting no time getting to Lexington. He will enroll early after playing in the All-American Bowl, paving the way for him to potentially make an impact on the field for Kentucky next fall.