The Southeastern Conference coaches have recognized four Kentucky Wildcats for their exceptional contributions during the 2024 football season. Alex Raynor, Barion Brown, Eli Cox, and Deone Walker were each named to the All-SEC teams, highlighting their individual excellence across various facets of the game.
Alex Raynor: Perfect Precision on the First Team
Senior kicker Alex Raynor earned All-SEC First Team honors after a record-breaking season. Hailing from Kennesaw, Georgia, Raynor displayed unmatched consistency, connecting on 15-of-16 field goal attempts. His 93.8% accuracy not only led the SEC but also broke his own school record for the best single-season field goal percentage. Over two seasons with Kentucky, Raynor made an incredible 25-of-27 field goals, setting SEC and UK career records with a 92.6% success rate.
A standout moment of Raynorโs season came against then-No. 1 Georgia, where he drilled a school-record 55-yard field goal, along with a 51-yarder in the same gameโbecoming only the second player in UK history to accomplish this feat since 1977. He also contributed to Kentucky’s upset of then-No. 6 Ole Miss with two crucial field goals, earning SEC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. Raynor is a finalist for the 2024 Lou Groza Award, solidifying his status as one of the nationโs top kickers.
Barion Brown: A Dual-Threat Dynamo
Junior Barion Brown, a dynamic playmaker from Nashville, Tennessee, was named First Team All-SEC as a return specialist and Second Team All-SEC in the all-purpose category. Brown continued to showcase his explosive abilities in the return game, finishing the season with 886 all-purpose yards. His 18 kick returns amassed 449 yards, including an electrifying 99-yard touchdown against Florida, marking his SEC-record fifth career kick return touchdown.
Beyond special teams, Brown contributed as a versatile offensive weapon, recording 29 receptions for 361 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 50 yards and another score. Despite recently entering the transfer portal, Brownโs legacy as one of the SECโs most dangerous returners is firmly cemented.
Eli Cox: The Reliable O-Line Anchor
Eli Cox, a senior offensive lineman from Nicholasville, Kentucky, earned Third Team All-SEC honors for his remarkable consistency and durability. Starting all 38 games over the last three seasons, Cox allowed only one sack in 2024, demonstrating his prowess as a protector in the trenches. With 72 blocks at the point of attack, 10 knockdown blocks, and a season grade of 76%, Cox was instrumental in paving the way for Kentuckyโs offensive success. His contributions earned him spots on the Outland Trophy and Reeseโs Senior Bowl Watch Lists, underscoring his status as one of the top linemen in the nation.
Deone Walker: A Defensive Powerhouse
Sophomore Deone Walker, a towering presence on Kentuckyโs defensive line, also earned Third Team All-SEC honors. The Detroit native consistently drew double teams, allowing him to disrupt opposing offenses. Walker recorded 37 tackles, including 5.0 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, while adding two pass breakups and a fumble recovery. His ability to control the line of scrimmage and create opportunities for his teammates made him a cornerstone of Kentuckyโs defense.
Looking Ahead
As Kentuckyโs football program continues to rebuild following a challenging season, the recognition of these four standout players is a testament to the talent within the roster. With Alex Raynorโs record-breaking accuracy, Barion Brownโs electrifying versatility, Eli Coxโs stalwart presence on the offensive line, and Deone Walkerโs defensive dominance, Kentucky remains a team with bright individual stars. Fans and coaches alike will watch eagerly to see how these honors shape their respective futures.