Ramon Jefferson, FCS All-American RB, Visits Kentucky ahead of Decision

A former pupil of Liam Coen could return to the offensive coordinator’s old stomping grounds. Ramon Jefferson, a 5-foot-10 running back from the Bronx, tells 247 Sports he was in Lexington last weekend for a visit.

Last year Jefferson was a second team All-American in the FCS ranks. The Sam Houston State running back totaled 1,155 yards (6.7 yards per carry) and 13 touchdowns in 12 games, helping the Bearkats reach the FCS playoff quarterfinals.

Liam Coen Connection

Jefferson’s career started at Maine in 2017 when Liam Coen was the offensive coordinator for the Black Bears. A redshirt prospect in his first season of college football, Jefferson crossed the 1,000-yard threshold following Coen’s departure in 2018. The following year he transferred to the JUCO ranks, playing at Terry Wilson’s former home, Garden City.

Transfer Portal Suitors for Ramon Jefferson

Seeking a new home for his sixth and final season of college football eligibility, Ramon Jefferson entered the transfer portal shortly after the 2021 season concluded. He initially committed to Colorado, but reopened his recruitment in May. Jefferson first visited Tennessee, then quietly took a trip to Kentucky. He liked what he heard from the Wildcats’ coaching staff.

“It was nice, I really enjoyed it,” Jefferson tells 247 Sports. “I really like the offensive scheme, I feel it’ll fit my play style. … The staff and players I spoke with were really down to earth and open, great conference (and Kentucky) has been successful past (few) years.”

Why Jefferson?

Kentucky has some scholarships to play with this summer. Adding more security at running back isn’t a bad idea. Chris Rodriguez‘s future remains uncertain and Kavosiey Smoke‘s durability could leave John Settle’s room vulnerable to depth issues in SEC play. Jefferson has only one year of eligibility remaining. Adding the former FCS player to the mix would not slow down the Cats’ running back recruiting efforts. A slippery, explosive back, there’s a lot to like about Ramon Jefferson’s game.