UK football loses two defensive starters for the rest of the season to injury
Kentucky football’s defense will be down at least two normal starters in its push for bowl eligibility.
Junior outside linebacker Sam Greene and senior safety Jordan Lovett will miss the rest of the season after suffering injuries in the win against Florida, UK coach Mark Stoops announced Monday. Both players will require surgery to correct the injuries.
“Really disappointed and really greatly appreciate the leadership that they’ve shown and the way they’ve played,” Stoops said.
Linebacker Alex Afari, who was hurt on the first play of that game, remained on the depth chart released Monday but is expected to miss at least this week’s game against Tennessee Tech, Stoops said. Defensive lineman Tavion Gadson, who did not play against Florida, is expected to return this week.
Cornerback DJ Waller, who has not played since the season opener due to a hamstring injury, is nearing a return. He was in uniform for the Florida game and fully participated in warmups. Waller should now qualify for a redshirt season even if he plays in all three remaining games.
Outside linebacker Lorenzo Cowan and safety Cam Dooley filled in for Greene and Lovett against Florida and are likely to continue to see expanded roles.
Lovett has totaled 44 tackles and two interceptions, including the game-clinching pick on the final play at Auburn two weeks ago. He finishes his UK career with nine interceptions, tied for eighth-most in program history.
Greene contributed a late sack in the Auburn win that forced the Hail Mary attempt Lovett intercepted. He has been credited with 25 tackles, three tackles for loss and one sack. Calzada has one season of eligibility remaining.