Marshall LB Transfer Landyn Watson Plans to Visit Kentucky This Week

Marshall transfer linebacker Landyn Watson is becoming a priority target for Kentucky in the portal. Now, he’s ready to get on campus.

The 6-foot-3, 235-pound linebacker told KSR+ that he’s been in contact with Kentucky’s linebacker coach Mike Stoops and defensive coordinator Brad White. Watson said he plans to visit this week.

“I know that it’s a defensive program,” Watson said. “They pride themselves on defense. I know they’ve put plenty of linebackers in the league in recent years.”

With this visit, Watson is looking to see how he interacts with the players and coaches. He also wants to get a feel for how he’d fit into the defensive scheme.

“I’m not really about the facilities and the looks,” he said. “I just want to see how I fit in, how they plan on using me, how they’ll develop me, and how they’ll get me to the next level.”

As for his fit, Watson is intrigued by Kentucky’s play style. He sees it as similar to what he ran at Marshall.

“I like that they have their linebackers active in blitzes,” Watson said. “I like being able to rush the passer.”

A Quick Decision Coming

Landyn Watson isn’t wasting any time in the transfer portal. He said he plans to commit by the end of the week.

“I’m not trying to stay in the portal long,” Watson said. “I plan on trying to make a decision at least by the end of this week, by Sunday or Monday.”

Watson told KSR+ that he and his agent have been contacted by California, FAU, Northwestern, SMU, West Virginia, and Cincinnati, among others. He said Mississippi State has reached out about setting up a visit.

“The second time [being in the portal], it’s a lot more hectic than the first time around,” Watson said. “I’m having a lot more schools reach out to me in this process.”

Watson, who comes from Hutto, TX, said that distance from home won’t be an issue when making his decision, although he does want his family to come to his games.

“I want to make sure my family is able to get to all the games, all the events, and things of that nature,” he said. “I want to go to a school where I can fit in and they develop me on and off the field.”

Landyn Watson’s Game

Landyn Watson spent the last two seasons at Marshall after transferring from TCU. He recorded 66 tackles and one interception in 11 games during the 2024 season.

“My greatest strength on the field is my versatility,” he said. “I’m able to be effective in the run game, as well as in the passing game with coverage and rushing the passer. I’m a versatile player and that helps me make more plays on the field.”

Watson is most looking to improve in his run sets moving forward. He got his most-ever in-game reps during this past season.

“If I do end up choosing to go to Kentucky, they’re going to get a player who’s all-in and wants to bring a championship to Lexington,” Watson said.