Kentucky Football Bolsters Defense with Landyn Watson’s Commitment
The Kentucky Wildcats football program continues to make waves in the transfer portal, landing not one but two major defensive talents on a productive December Saturday. Following the earlier commitment of USC defensive end Sam Greene, the Wildcats secured a pledge from Marshall linebacker Landyn Watson, adding more firepower to their defense for the upcoming season.
Landyn Watson’s Path to Lexington
At 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds, Landyn Watson brings an intriguing blend of size, athleticism, and upside. A native of Hutto, Texas, Watson began his football journey as a highly sought-after 3-star recruit in the class of 2021. Ranked 480th nationally and 32nd among edge rushers, Watson drew widespread attention from powerhouse programs across the country.
Initially committed to LSU, Watson’s recruitment was a whirlwind. He ultimately signed with TCU, choosing the Horned Frogs over offers from programs like Arkansas, Florida State, Michigan, Missouri, Notre Dame, Penn State, Ole Miss, Tennessee, and Baylor.
However, his time at TCU did not go as planned. After limited playing time over two seasons, Watson entered the transfer portal seeking a fresh start. He landed at Marshall, where he began to tap into his potential.
Breakout Season at Marshall
Watson made steady progress in his first season at Marshall but truly broke out during the 2024 campaign. Playing in 11 games, he racked up 65 tackles, four tackles for loss, and even snagged an interception, showcasing his ability to contribute both against the run and in coverage.
Though still refining his craft, Watson’s performance earned him a respectable 63.5 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF). His versatility and athleticism make him a valuable addition to Kentucky’s linebacker corps, where he will compete for a starting role.
Filling Key Defensive Gaps
Kentucky’s linebacker unit is in need of reinforcements following the departure of veterans Jamon Dumas-Johnson (graduation) and D’Eryk Jackson (entering the NFL Draft). Watson will have an opportunity to step into one of these starting roles, where his physical tools and improving instincts could make him a difference-maker for the Wildcats.
With his combination of SEC-level recruiting pedigree and recent on-field production, Watson represents a high-upside player who can thrive in Kentucky’s defensive system. His ability to stop the run, pressure the quarterback, and drop into coverage will provide defensive coordinator Brad White with a versatile weapon to deploy.
Kentucky’s Defensive Future Looks Bright
Watson’s commitment, paired with the earlier addition of USC defensive end Sam Greene, signals Kentucky’s commitment to building a formidable defense for the future. The Wildcats are capitalizing on the transfer portal to address key gaps, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-tough SEC.
For Watson, the move to Lexington offers a chance to prove himself on a bigger stage and showcase why he was so highly recruited coming out of high school. For Kentucky, it’s another win in the transfer portal, adding depth and experience to a defense that continues to evolve into one of the most physical and relentless units in the league.
Welcome to Lexington, Landyn Watson—your time to shine awaits!
