WATCH: Stoops, White and the Wildcats talk Spring Practice No. 5

Mark Stoops made an unscheduled media appearance following Kentucky’s fifth spring practice to confirm Vito Tisdale’s season ending injury, but he had much more to say than that. The Kentucky head coach shared that he’s pleased with the progress from Dru Phillips and he likes what he’s seeing from the early enrollees.

Even though it’s just spring practice, the Wildcats are light at a few spots on defense. Brad White is getting another opportunity to improve at problem solving, all while focusing on fundamentals.

Jacquez Jones is a joy. It’s not just because he provided some snappy quotes about the UK offense and the transfer portal. The dude has fun at the podium. Today he shared two previously unknown nicknames. Second-year DL Jamarius Dinkins is simply known as “Spider.” It’s like when DeAndre Square forgot Kelvin Joseph‘s name because they only called him “Fats.” He might as well be listed in the program as “Spider Dinkins.” Jones also has a personal nickname for Tashawn Manning, Little Refrigerator, “Because once he gets his hands on you, it’s over.”

After taking his turn waiting behind a pair of NFL players, Justin Rogers is ready for his time to shine alongside a talented class of defensive linemen that includes Josaih Hayes, Tre’vonn Rybka and Octavious Oxendine. It took Rogers a little while to learn what kind of work ethic and strain it takes to be successful in the SEC, but take one look at his physical shape during this iteration of spring practice, and you can tell he’s received the important message.

If not for COVID-19, Tyrell Ajian‘s career would have reached a conclusion following the 2021 season. He’s grateful to have another opportunity to play for UK. Ajian felt like he left a lot on the field last year, just a step or two away from making multiple big plays. His decision to return was an easy one.