The transfer portal reached a dead period today as players can no longer take visits until January. This did not stop the Kentucky staff from landing a commitment from one of the weekend’s visitors. Kameron Olds, a 6’4 240-pound defensive end from Kent State, committed to the Cats Monday afternoon. Olds is a three or four-star transfer depending on the service, but the Cats fought off top level competition for the MAC edge.
Player Background
Olds was a low three-star recruit coming out of Fork Union Military Academy in Midlothian, Virginia. Olds began his career playing for Maurice Linguist at Buffalo. In his true freshman season with the Bulls, Olds tallied 4 tackles and 11 pressures for a 16.17% pressure rate on pass rush snaps. His playing time diminished as a sophomore before Linguist moved to Alabama and pushing Olds to transfer to Kent State this past season. Kent State was one of the worst teams in the country last season, but Olds flashed as someone who could play at a much higher level. He put up 42 tackles, 6 sacks, and 29 pressures in 474 snaps for the Golden Flashes in his breakout 2024 season. Olds can be a game changer on the edge, but he did miss 22.4% of his tackles this season. Consistency bringing down the ball carrier will be a point of emphasis as the star defensive end makes the transition to the SEC.
Program Fit
Olds was by far the best athlete on the field for Kent State this season. He gets off the ball quickly and throws tackles off balance with his ability to create leverage and good angles. He plays with high energy and was productive against quality MAC offensive lineman this season. His pass rush productivity garnered the attention of Georgia Tech and Nebraska before Kentucky was able to get a visit. Ole Miss made a push, but the Cats locked down Olds despite the allure of Lane Kiffin. Brad White has been at his best when he has a difference-maker on the edge, and Olds should get Kentucky back to having a true threat on the outside.
Position Outlook
Kentucky has a mass exodus at defensive end this season following departures of JJ Weaver, Noah Matthews, Tommy Ziesmer, and Tyrese Fearbry. Sam Greene is a young player Kentucky brought in early, but he projects as a better run defender than pass rusher. Olds can be a full-time starter at defensive end where he can use his explosiveness to create havoc for Brad White’s defense. Kentucky created havoc in 2024, but they could not stay consistent on a down-to-down basis. Olds should help the defense keep offenses behind the chains and finish drives when he gets to pin his ears back as a pass rusher.
