Once a Kentucky commit in high school, EDGE Lorenzo Cowan is coming back to the Bluegrass after one season at Southern California
Once a Kentucky Commit in High School, EDGE Lorenzo Cowan Is Coming Back to the Bluegrass After One Season at Southern California
In a highly anticipated move that has sent waves of excitement through the University of Kentucky football community, EDGE rusher Lorenzo Cowan has announced that he is returning to Kentucky after spending one season at the University of Southern California (USC). Cowan, a former Kentucky commit in high school, made headlines when he decommitted from the Wildcats to join the Trojans, but his return to the Bluegrass marks a thrilling new chapter in his football career. As Kentucky looks to strengthen its defense heading into the 2025 season, the addition of Cowan, a raw talent with immense potential, could be a game-changer for Mark Stoops’ squad.
Cowan’s journey from high school standout in Kentucky to USC and now back to the Wildcats is one filled with twists and turns, but the decision to return home speaks volumes about his desire to be part of the future success of Kentucky football. With an athletic profile that has earned comparisons to some of the best pass rushers in college football, Cowan’s return to Lexington brings hope that the Wildcats’ defense will take a significant leap forward.
A Brief History: Cowan’s High School Days and Commitment to Kentucky
Before Cowan was a highly touted recruit, he was a high school football star at Lexington High School in Kentucky. Known for his explosive first step and relentless motor, Cowan was a terror for opposing quarterbacks. During his high school career, he racked up an impressive number of sacks, tackles for loss, and pressures that caught the attention of scouts, coaches, and recruiting analysts across the country.
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing around 240 pounds, Cowan possessed the prototypical size and length that teams look for in an EDGE rusher. He was a highly rated recruit in the state of Kentucky, and his potential was through the roof. His explosive athleticism, combined with his natural instincts, made him one of the most sought-after prospects in the country.
Given his Kentucky roots and familiarity with the Wildcats’ program, Cowan originally committed to the University of Kentucky early in his recruitment. At the time, it seemed like a perfect fit. Kentucky’s defense was building under head coach Mark Stoops, and the program had made significant strides in terms of recruiting top-tier talent. Cowan’s commitment to the Wildcats was a big win for the program, as he was considered a key building block in a defense that was expected to be among the best in the SEC.
However, just months before National Signing Day, Cowan shocked the recruiting world by decommitting from Kentucky and committing to USC, one of the most storied programs in college football. The move to Southern California came as a surprise to many, but Cowan cited his desire to play for a program with a history of success and national championships as a key reason for the change. USC, with its rich tradition and national prominence, seemed like the perfect place for Cowan to develop his game on a bigger stage.
A Year at USC: The Promise and the Struggles
Cowan’s lone season at USC was one filled with both promise and challenges. Stepping into the competitive environment of a powerhouse program, Cowan quickly realized the intensity and expectations of playing at a school like USC. Although he was highly regarded as one of the top defensive prospects in his class, he still had to adjust to the level of competition in the Pac-12.
In his first year at USC, Cowan had a mixed performance. While he showed glimpses of the explosive pass-rushing ability that made him a top recruit, he struggled at times to translate his high school success to the college level. His freshman season saw limited playing time due to the depth of the Trojans’ defense, but Cowan made enough of an impression to be in the conversation for increased reps moving forward. The learning curve was steep, and Cowan had to refine many aspects of his game, particularly his technique and football IQ, to become a more complete EDGE rusher.
Cowan’s time at USC also highlighted the importance of developing strength, conditioning, and consistency at the collegiate level. Playing in a conference as competitive as the Pac-12 meant that Cowan was facing some of the best offensive lines and quarterbacks in the nation. There were games where Cowan struggled to make an impact, as the speed and physicality of college football became an eye-opening experience for him. His season was not without flashes of brilliance, though. His explosiveness off the edge and his ability to beat blockers with speed were apparent at times, and his potential was never in doubt.
However, despite some flashes of promise, Cowan recognized that his development was not progressing as quickly as he had hoped. He was far from a finished product, and after consulting with his family, coaches, and mentors, Cowan made the decision to enter the transfer portal. The goal was clear: he wanted to find a program where he could continue his development as a player and get the playing time he needed to grow.
Why Return to Kentucky?
After a year at USC, Cowan’s decision to transfer back to Kentucky has generated excitement and optimism. For many fans and analysts, it’s a homecoming of sorts, and Cowan’s return feels like a natural fit for both the player and the program. Several factors influenced his decision to come back to Lexington, where he had originally committed as a high school recruit.
1. The Familiarity with the Program and Coaching Staff
One of the most compelling reasons for Cowan’s return to Kentucky is the familiarity he has with the program and coaching staff. Under head coach Mark Stoops, Kentucky has developed into a formidable force in the SEC, particularly on defense. Stoops, a former defensive coordinator, has built a reputation for developing elite defensive players, and his ability to coach up EDGE rushers has been a key part of Kentucky’s recent success.
Stoops’ coaching staff has had great success with high-level defensive prospects over the years, turning raw talent into NFL-caliber players. Kentucky has produced several successful defensive players under Stoops, including pass rushers who have made a name for themselves in the professional ranks. For Cowan, coming back to a staff that understands his strengths and weaknesses gives him the best chance to continue his development and reach his full potential. The familiarity with the coaching staff and the program’s philosophy is crucial, especially after spending a year adjusting to a new environment.
2. The Opportunity for Immediate Playing Time
One of the main reasons Cowan transferred was the lack of playing time at USC. While the Trojans had a strong defensive line, Cowan struggled to carve out a significant role in the rotation. The competition for reps was fierce, and Cowan realized that he would need to continue developing behind veterans before he could earn a more prominent spot on the field.
At Kentucky, Cowan sees an opportunity for more immediate playing time. With the Wildcats looking to bolster their pass rush and create a more dynamic defense, Cowan’s addition is a timely one. Kentucky lost several key defensive players to the NFL and graduation, leaving holes on the defensive line and in the EDGE position. Cowan, with his natural athleticism and pass-rushing abilities, can step in and make an immediate impact. The Wildcats’ defense will look to him to become a cornerstone of their pass-rush unit, especially as they aim to compete in a loaded SEC.
3. The SEC and the Competition
Another reason for Cowan’s return to Kentucky is the opportunity to play in the SEC, which is widely regarded as the most competitive football conference in the country. While USC plays in a strong Pac-12 conference, the level of competition in the SEC is unmatched in terms of physicality, speed, and talent. For Cowan, the chance to compete at the highest level in one of the best conferences in college football is an opportunity he didn’t want to pass up.
The SEC offers Cowan the platform to showcase his skills against some of the best offensive linemen and quarterbacks in the country. Playing against SEC opponents week in and week out will challenge him to elevate his game to new heights. For a player like Cowan, who is still in the developmental stages of his career, the SEC provides the perfect environment to grow and mature as a player.
4. The Relationship with the Kentucky Fans and Community
Cowan’s decision to return to Kentucky also reflects his connection to the Bluegrass State. Having grown up in Kentucky, Cowan has always felt a deep sense of pride in representing his home state. The Wildcats’ fanbase is passionate, loyal, and invested in the success of the football program. For Cowan, returning to Kentucky gives him the chance to play in front of his family, friends, and the community that supported him throughout his high school career.
The emotional connection to Kentucky and the desire to finish his career in front of his home crowd played a significant role in his decision to return. Cowan recognizes that the Wildcats’ football program is on the rise, and he wants to be a part of the team’s continued success. He hopes to leave a lasting legacy at Kentucky and help the program take the next step toward national prominence.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect from Cowan in 2025
Cowan’s return to Kentucky is a significant development for both the player and the program. As the Wildcats look to build a defense that can compete with the best in the SEC, Cowan will play a pivotal role in their success. His raw talent, athleticism, and pass-rushing potential make him one of the most exciting players on the roster heading into the 2025 season.
With an offseason of preparation and development under Kentucky’s coaching staff, Cowan is poised to take on a starting role and contribute immediately. His size, speed, and versatility make him a nightmare for offensive linemen, and he has the potential to become one of the top EDGE rushers in the SEC. The Wildcats will be counting on him to help anchor their defense, create pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and be a disruptive force in the trenches.
Cowan’s journey from Kentucky to USC and back to Kentucky is a testament to his growth as a player and his commitment to his development. The future is bright for Cowan and the Wildcats, and his return marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
