Thought for a couple of seconds
May 11, 2025 — In a stunning late-cycle development, Kentucky Wildcats football officially announced today the commitment of five-star wide receiver Jalen Hayes, who had previously decommitted from Ohio State and Alabama this spring. Hayes, a 6-4, 200-pound speedster from Miami (FL) Central High, chose the Bluegrass State over a final list that included Clemson and LSU.
A High-Profile Recruitment
Hayes burst onto the national scene as one of the top junior prospects in the 2024 recruiting class, earning a coveted five-star rating from all major scouting services. His recruitment saw an early pledge to Ohio State last June, a dramatic flip to Alabama in January, and now this latest commitment to Kentucky—a program on the rise under head coach Mark Stoops.
Coach Stoops Weighs In
“It’s not every day you get the chance to add someone like Jalen to your roster,” said Stoops at today’s signing-day press conference. “He’s a phenomenal talent with size, speed, and competitiveness. More importantly, he’s a young man of character who fits the culture we’re building here in Lexington.”
Hayes’s Decision Process
In a statement released alongside the Wildcats’ announcement, Hayes cited Kentucky’s offensive scheme and early playing opportunity as key factors:
“Coach Stoops and Coach Tawzer really sold me on how they plan to get me involved right away. I’ve watched their guys develop and go to the NFL, and I’m ready to make my mark here.”
Hayes will join a receiving corps led by rising sophomore Xavier Simmons and veteran slot threat Demonte Carter, giving offensive coordinator Liam Coen one of the most dynamic pass-catching tandems in the SEC.
Reactions from Ohio State and Alabama
Ohio State coach Ryan Day and Alabama’s Nick Saban both issued gracious statements wishing Hayes well. Day noted, “Jalen’s talent is undeniable, and we respect his decision. We’ll continue pushing the guys here to fill that role.” Saban added, “Recruiting is a constant battle; we appreciate Jalen’s interest in Bama, and we wish him success at Kentucky.”
What’s Next for the Wildcats?
Kentucky’s 2025 class now ranks inside the top 15 nationally, thanks in large part to Hayes’s late addition. With spring practice set to begin in early April, Wildcats fans eagerly anticipate seeing Hayes run routes alongside returning stars while Kentucky looks to build on last season’s nine-win campaign.
Hayes officially signs his National Letter of Intent during next week’s early signing period and is expected to enroll in classes this summer, joining the Wildcats for fall camp as a potential freshman starter.