The University of Kentucky football program is making a strong push to bolster its roster, particularly in the tight end room, with its sights set on a notable transfer prospect. Elijah Brown, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound tight end who has previously suited up for Alabama, Florida Atlantic, and most recently UCF, is currently on a transfer visit to Lexington, according to multiple sources. With two years of college eligibility remaining, Brown presents both an immediate and future option for the Wildcats’ offensive plans.
Head coach Mark Stoops and recruiting coordinator Vince Marrow have been relentless in their efforts to improve team depth and talent through the transfer portal, and Brown represents another opportunity to do just that. The former top-250 national recruit originally hails from Dayton, Ohio, where he was a standout at Wayne High School. Ranked as the No. 8 tight end in the 2021 class, Brown attracted significant attention from major programs across the country during his initial recruitment.
Kentucky was heavily involved in Brown’s original recruitment out of high school, thanks in large part to Marrow’s extensive ties and recruiting reputation in the state of Ohio. Despite the Wildcats’ strong pursuit, Brown ultimately chose to commit to Alabama, joining the Crimson Tide’s elite program. However, his time in Tuscaloosa was short-lived. Brown redshirted during his lone season with Alabama and opted to transfer to Florida Atlantic after his freshman year.
At FAU, Brown spent two seasons largely contributing on special teams while developing his game behind the scenes. During his time with the Owls, he began to show flashes of potential, particularly as a blocker, and recorded a notable 22-yard reception during the 2023 season. That single play highlighted his receiving ability, which had been relatively untapped up to that point. Coaches and analysts began to take notice of his size, athleticism, and potential upside.
Seeking a fresh opportunity and more playing time, Brown transferred once again—this time to UCF in January. His stay with the Knights, however, appears to be brief, as he is now exploring other options, with Kentucky emerging as a serious contender. The Wildcats are actively looking to add depth and versatility to their tight end corps, and Brown could be a valuable addition given his experience at the Power Five and Group of Five levels.
His physical attributes—standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds—make him a prototypical tight end with both blocking and receiving capabilities. If the visit goes well and he decides to commit, Brown could fill a critical role for Kentucky beginning in the 2025 season, while also serving as a potential long-term contributor for the program.
With Stoops and Marrow continuing to push hard on the recruiting trail, Elijah Brown’s addition would signal yet another step forward in the Wildcats’ strategic use of the transfer portal to remain competitive in the SEC.
