‘I Expect Him to Take Another Step’: Kentucky Confident Alex Afari Jr. Will Thrive in Bigger Linebacker Role This Season
As Kentucky football gears up for a pivotal season, head coach Mark Stoops and his staff aren’t shy about voicing their expectations. While many fans and analysts are focusing on the quarterback battle or the loaded SEC schedule ahead, the Kentucky coaching staff has zeroed in on a key player they believe will take his game to the next level—junior linebacker Alex Afari Jr.
In recent conversations with reporters, Stoops and defensive coordinator Brad White expressed tremendous confidence in Afari’s development, calling him a “cornerstone” of the defense and a player poised for a breakout season.
Emerging Star in the Heart of the Defense
Afari, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound linebacker from West Chester, Ohio, entered the program as a four-star recruit with plenty of potential. Over the past two seasons, he’s flashed his versatility, lining up at STAR (hybrid linebacker/defensive back), covering slot receivers, stopping the run, and even occasionally rushing the passer.
Now, as Kentucky looks to rebuild the identity of its defense following the departure of key veterans, Afari is being positioned as a key leader and playmaker in the linebacker corps.
“I expect him to take another step,” Stoops said confidently during media day. “He’s been solid, dependable, and smart. But now we need him to be dynamic. We think he’s ready for that.”
Leadership Through Work Ethic
Those close to the program say Afari’s growth has been noticeable—not just in his physical strength or football IQ, but in his leadership presence.
“Afari is the guy who stays late in the film room, asks the tough questions, and brings younger players along with him,” said linebackers coach Mike Stoops. “He’s not just doing his job—he’s making sure others know theirs too.”
Afari’s commitment to improvement has earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike. This offseason, he’s been a constant in Kentucky’s strength and conditioning program, working with trainers to improve his lateral quickness and closing speed.
His hard work has already paid off. In spring practices, Afari was consistently around the football—disrupting passing lanes, sniffing out screen plays, and delivering punishing hits in the backfield.
From Hybrid Role to True Linebacker
Afari’s transition from the STAR position to more of a traditional linebacker role comes at a time when Kentucky is retooling its defensive identity. With the SEC shifting toward more balanced offensive attacks—featuring mobile quarterbacks and versatile tight ends—the Wildcats need linebackers who can cover ground, shed blocks, and stay disciplined.
“Alex fits that mold perfectly,” said Brad White. “He’s a guy who played defensive back in high school, so he has the footwork and coverage instincts. But now he’s added the physicality and mindset of a linebacker.”
White also emphasized that the staff isn’t asking Afari to abandon his strengths—instead, they’re doubling down on them. “We’re not trying to turn him into something he’s not,” White said. “We’re unleashing him.”
Afari’s athletic profile makes him one of the most unique defenders in the SEC. His ability to drop back in coverage, read the quarterback’s eyes, and then come downhill with aggression gives Kentucky a major advantage in situational defense—especially on third downs and in the red zone.
What’s at Stake in 2025
For Kentucky, the 2025 season represents a crossroads. After years of incremental progress under Stoops—including bowl wins, national rankings, and marquee upsets—the pressure is mounting to take the next step and contend in the ever-intensifying SEC landscape.
That will require leaders on both sides of the ball, and the coaching staff sees Afari as a pillar of that defensive leadership.
“Every successful team has a guy who keeps everyone accountable,” Stoops said. “Alex is becoming that guy for our defense.”
The Wildcats will face early challenges, including a high-profile non-conference clash and a brutal October stretch featuring Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas A&M. Afari’s performance during those games could be the difference between a 7-win season and a 10-win breakthrough.
NFL Future?
While Afari remains focused on helping his team win in Lexington, NFL scouts are certainly taking notice of his skill set. His blend of speed, size, and versatility projects well to the next level—particularly as NFL defenses continue to covet hybrid players who can handle modern offenses.
“He’s a guy that checks a lot of boxes for NFL evaluators,” said an anonymous NFC scout who attended Kentucky’s spring game. “You watch the tape, and you see a guy who can cover, tackle in space, and lead a defense. That’s what they want.”
If Afari continues on his current trajectory, don’t be surprised if his name starts popping up in 2026 NFL Draft discussions.
Teammates Rally Behind Him
Inside the locker room, Afari’s emergence as a leader has not gone unnoticed.
“Alex is one of those guys you trust,” said defensive lineman Deone Walker. “He’s going to know his job, and he’s going to help you do yours. That makes a huge difference when we’re out there.”
Safety Zion Childress added, “We feed off his energy. When he makes a play, the whole defense gets fired up. He’s that spark we need.”
Kentucky football is entering 2025 with high expectations and plenty of questions. But one thing appears clear: Alex Afari Jr. is ready for the moment.
With an expanded role at linebacker, the full support of his coaching staff, and the trust of his teammates, Afari is poised to become one of the SEC’s most impactful defensive players. If he does, it won’t just elevate the Wildcats’ defense—it could change the entire trajectory of Kentucky’s season.
As Mark Stoops said, “I expect him to take another step. And if he does, this team is going to be a problem for a lot of people.”
Big Blue Nation will be watching—and believing.
