Antonio O’Berry, a highly projected Edge rusher, will not play this season

Kentucky has lost Antonio O’Berry, one of its most intriguing defensive additions, before he ever got the chance to take the field.

Kentucky loses Antonio O’Berry, who will not play this season

Head coach Will Stein announced this Saturday that the NCAA informed Kentucky that Antonio O’Berry had exhausted his eligibility and will not play for the Wildcats in 2026.

This decision by the NCAA is a major blow for Kentucky. Last week, PFF-College predicted that O’Berry would be the No. 2 Edge rusher in the SEC.

Antonio O’Berry arrived in Lexington after spending his first three college seasons at the Division II. He later transferred to Gardner-Webb and played for two years. He broke out in 2025, recording 52 tackles, 10.5 TFLs, and 4.5 sacks in 12 games. Additionally, he earned First-Team All-OVC-Big South honors.

Kentucky will have to find a way to replace that production. There is, however, another situation worth monitoring in Lexington as we get closer to week one.

Alex Afari returning to Kentucky Football?

Kentucky linebacker Alex Afari was supposed to finish his career after the 2025 season. However, changes surrounding eligibility for members of the 2022 recruiting class have opened the door for a return.

Will Stein previously said Kentucky would explore the possibility of bringing back players who could receive an additional season of eligibility.

Now, Afari has begun practicing with the Wildcats while Kentucky works with the NCAA to determine whether he will be eligible for the upcoming season.