𝐍𝐨 𝟏 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐲… 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞

⭐️ Commitment Spotlight: Garrett Witherington Picks Kentucky Over Dozens in Surprise 2026 Recruiting Win

A rising 3-star defensive lineman, Garrett Witherington has officially committed to the University of Kentucky, giving the Wildcats a key boost in their 2026 recruiting class. The 6-foot-5, 290-pound standout from Briarwood Christian (AL) is ranked No. 113 among defensive linemen nationally and No. 31 in the state of Alabama. On3 places him at No. 64 at his position and No. 978 overall, highlighting his strong upside and long-term potential as an impact SEC player.

🔥 A Hot Recruitment with National Attention

Witherington’s recruitment was far from quiet. He earned over 40 scholarship offers from across the country, with schools in both the SEC and ACC showing strong interest. His final list included top academic and athletic programs like:

• Notre Dame

• Penn State

• Miami

• North Carolina

• Stanford

• Georgia Tech

• Mississippi State

• Memphis

• Vanderbilt

He took official visits to Stanford, Georgia Tech, Mississippi State, Penn State, and finally Kentucky on June 17. In the end, it was the Wildcats’ strong focus on culture and player development that won him over.

🤝 Why He Chose Kentucky: “It Felt Like Family”

At his announcement, Witherington said the decision came down to how genuine and connected the staff felt.

“It’s just the family-like atmosphere,” he said. “Coach White and Coach Stewart are so close—it’s cool to see that kind of bond on a coaching staff.”

Defensive Coordinator Brad White and Defensive Line Coach Anwar Stewart led his recruitment, emphasizing how they plan to develop him within the program. Kentucky also presented a clear, personalized vision for his growth and role on the defense.

📊 What Kentucky Is Getting

Witherington brings size and athleticism to the defensive line. He plays with power but moves well for his size, making him a threat in both the run and pass game.

During his junior season, he recorded:

• 55 tackles (30 solo)

• 13 tackles-for-loss

• 4 sacks

• 19 QB pressures

• Occasional snaps as a blocking tight end

He prides himself on his gap control, pass-rush technique, and physicality, and he’s actively improving his flexibility and strength through specialized training, including Pilates.

🎯 Recruiting Impact: Strengthening the 2026 Class

Witherington becomes Kentucky’s 13th commit in the 2026 class, which is now ranked No. 55 nationally by 247Sports. He joins fellow elite defensive line commit Ben Duncum (Lake Travis, TX)—adding serious depth and versatility to the Wildcats’ front.

Head coach Luke Fickell and his staff are making it clear: Kentucky plans to dominate in the trenches with a tough, physical defensive identity.

🗣️ From the Coaches

“Kentucky is an amazing school. They really pursued Garrett. The staff’s commitment and stability mean a lot,” said Briarwood Christian head coach Matthew Forester.

🛤️ What’s Next: Early Impact Potential

• Spring 2026: Witherington will arrive ready to compete. Expect coaches to test him early in position battles.

• Rotation Role: He could fit into Kentucky’s defensive line rotation, especially in pass-rush packages and nickel sets.

• Two-Deep by Mid-Season: If development goes as expected, look for him to be a key contributor by the middle of the 2026 season.

🧭 Bigger Picture: Building for the Future

This commitment shows that Kentucky can go toe-to-toe with national programs—not just on the field, but on the recruiting trail. It reflects:

• A clear culture of trust and development

• Strong recruiting ties under Coach Fickell

• A growing SEC brand rooted in defense and toughness

As the class of 2026 continues to grow, Kentucky is positioning itself for sustained success in the SEC—and potentially more national attention in the seasons ahead.