Kentucky Football lands another big-time player from Texas, Ben Duncum
In a major recruiting victory for the University of Kentucky, the Wildcats have secured a verbal commitment from Ben Duncum, a highly sought-after edge rusher from Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas. A towering 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive lineman with raw athleticism and a relentless motor, Duncum is the latest standout to commit to Kentucky’s promising 2026 recruiting class. The commitment marks a significant win for head coach Mark Stoops and defensive coordinator Brad White, who have quietly built a strong pipeline to Texas in recent years.
WHAT Happened: A Star Commits to the Wildcats
Ben Duncum, rated as a 3-star defensive lineman and ranked among the top 100 edge rushers nationally in the 2026 class by 247Sports, announced his commitment to Kentucky following a successful official visit to Lexington the weekend of June 20–22.
He chose the Wildcats over a competitive list of Power Five offers that included Wisconsin, Oklahoma State, Kansas State, and Utah. Duncum had previously taken official visits to both Wisconsin and Oklahoma State, but it was Kentucky’s blend of coaching stability, SEC exposure, and development track record that sealed the deal.
“From the moment I got on campus, I felt the energy. The players were welcoming, the coaches kept it real, and I could see myself becoming a better version of me here,” Duncum said in a post-commitment interview. “Coach White and Coach Stoops didn’t promise me playing time — they promised to develop me the right way.”
Duncum becomes the 11th commitment in Kentucky’s 2026 recruiting class and the third player from Texas, joining wide receiver Davis McCray and cornerback Isaiah McMillian, both of whom committed earlier in the cycle.
HOW It Happened: A Masterclass in Relationship-Based Recruiting1.
Kentucky’s Early Interest Paid Off
Kentucky was one of the first SEC programs to extend an offer to Duncum, showing early belief in his upside as a long-term edge rusher. Defensive coordinator Brad White identified him early in the cycle as a top priority for the 2026 class, and the program maintained constant communication throughout Duncum’s junior season.
Duncum’s recruitment accelerated after a strong junior year in which he recorded 16 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks, wreaking havoc in the backfield for Lake Travis. His high football IQ and versatility on the edge — where he plays both standing up and with a hand in the dirt — made him a highly valuable asset for multiple college schemes.
“Ben isn’t just a pass-rusher,” said Lake Travis defensive coordinator Aaron Starnes. “He’s a tone-setter. He studies film like a senior in college, and his leadership is off the charts.”
2. Official Visit Sealed the Deal
Duncum’s visit to Lexington turned the tide. From a tour of Kentucky’s state-of-the-art facilities to meetings with position coaches and bonding with current players, Duncum left with a clear vision of how he’d fit in the program.
The key moment came during a sit-down with Coach Stoops, where the Kentucky head coach laid out the expectations — both athletically and academically — and detailed the team’s development plan tailored to Duncum’s strengths.
“They didn’t try to sell me a dream,” Duncum said. “They gave me a plan.”
3. Trust in Kentucky’s Development Track Record
Kentucky has quietly become one of the best programs in the country for developing defensive talent — particularly front seven defenders. Under Coach Stoops, the Wildcats have produced several NFL-caliber edge rushers and linebackers, including Josh Allen (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Jamin Davis (Washington Commanders).
The program’s defensive credibility clearly resonated with Duncum, who expressed a desire to develop in a system that prepares him for the next level.
“If I handle my business, I believe Coach White will put me in the best spot to succeed — in college and beyond,” Duncum added.
WHY It Matters: Kentucky’s Recruiting Footprint Expands
1. Growing the Texas Pipeline
Duncum’s commitment underscores Kentucky’s increased efforts to build a recruiting pipeline in Texas, a state rich in elite football talent. With three Texas prospects already in the fold for the 2026 class, the Wildcats are making noticeable progress in a state that’s long been dominated by Big 12 and SEC powerhouses like Texas, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, and LSU.
Assistant coaches like Jay Boulware, who has deep Texas ties, have been instrumental in fostering relationships and identifying hidden gems across the Lone Star State.
“We know we’re not going to land every five-star in Texas,” said Boulware. “But we’re looking for tough, smart, coachable kids who want to grow in the SEC. Ben fits that to a tee.”
2. Elevating the Defensive Front
On the field, Duncum brings much-needed depth and edge versatility to Kentucky’s defensive line group. The Wildcats are expected to lose several veteran linemen over the next two years, making it critical to restock with long, athletic pass rushers who can contribute early.
While Duncum may not start immediately, insiders suggest he could compete for early snaps as a situational pass rusher, especially given his size, speed, and relentless effort.
“His first step is lethal,” said 247Sports regional analyst Gabe Brooks. “With a year in a college weight room, this kid could be a terror off the edge.”
3. Momentum in the 2026 Class
Kentucky’s 2026 class is shaping up to be one of Stoops’ more well-rounded efforts. With Duncum on board, the Wildcats now have:
- 11 verbal commitments
- 3 Texas natives
- 5 defensive players
- Several top-1000 nationally ranked recruits
The class may not be filled with five-star names, but Kentucky is assembling a group of physically gifted, high-character players who align with the culture Stoops has worked hard to build over the past decade.
Scouting Report: Ben Duncum at a Glance
| Attribute | Evaluation |
|---|---|
| Size | 6’5”, 255 lbs |
| Frame | Long-limbed, room to add muscle |
| Strengths | Explosive first step, high motor, strong hands |
| Areas to Improve | Pad level, change of direction in space |
| Projection | 4–3 DE / 3–4 EDGE hybrid |
| Player Comp | Zach Allen (Arizona State/Broncos) |
What’s Next for Duncum and Kentucky
Ben Duncum is expected to play his senior season at Lake Travis as one of the top defenders in Texas 6A football. Kentucky coaches will no doubt keep a close eye on his final year, helping him prepare both mentally and physically for the transition to SEC football.
He plans to enroll at Kentucky in the summer of 2026 and will be a candidate for early playing time on special teams and select defensive packages. Until then, Kentucky’s staff will continue to recruit and reinforce the 2026 class — with Duncum possibly acting as a peer recruiter to help bring in more Texas talent.
“I’m trying to bring some more dogs with me,” Duncum laughed. “Let’s build something real in Lexington.”
Landing Ben Duncum is about more than one player — it’s a statement of intent. Kentucky Football is expanding its national footprint, investing in talent-rich states like Texas, and continuing to identify players who fit the program’s DNA.
Duncum’s commitment checks all the boxes: SEC-ready frame, elite motor, coachability, and most importantly, a desire to grow.
Mark Stoops and his staff may not always grab the headlines on national signing day, but with players like Duncum in the fold, they’re quietly building a roster capable of competing — and winning — in the SEC.
