It’s been quite the 48 hours around the Kentucky Athletics program. First came news that Mark Stoops was out of a job for all of three months. In case you hadn’t heard, he’s joining Steve Sarkisian’s staff at Texas as a special assistant. What his role will be exactly is still unknown. Then came the news that long-time athletic director Mitch Barnhart was retiring in June after 24 years. The school won six national championships during his tenure: men’s basketball in 2012, volleyball in 2021, and four rifle titles (2011, 2018, 2021, and 2022). However, in recent years, he’s drawn criticism from the UK faithful for the perception of being behind the times with NIL. Now, back to why we are here. Several of Stoops’ former players took part in the recent combine in Indianapolis. In fact, several did really well and improved their draft stock in the process. Let’s show you how they did as former Kentucky Wildcats Shine at the NFL Combine.<\/p>\n
A season ago, Seth McGowan <\/a>led the Wildcats with 725 yards rushing to go along with 19 receptions. In addition, his 12 touchdowns were fourth in the SEC.\u00a0 In our Combine preview, <\/a>we talked about how McGowan was coming off the board as early as the third round in some mock drafts. His showing in Indianapolis did nothing to dispel those predictions. The six-foot, 223-pounder ran a 4.49 40-yard dash, which is good for a back his size. However, it was his vertical jump that had everyone talking. In fact, he posted the second-best mark by a running back ever.<\/p>\n 6'0", 223-pound @UKFootball<\/a> RB Seth McGowan just launched for a 42.5" vertical. \ud83d\udc40<\/p>\n That's the second-best mark all-time at the Combine for the running backs.<\/p>\n 2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork<\/a> — NFL (@NFL) February 28, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n
Stream on @NFLPlus<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/ItEHHVigop<\/a><\/p>\n