The countdown has begun for one of the most sought-after edge rushers in the 2025 recruiting class—Ben Duncum. The 6’4″, 230-pound defensive standout from Nashville, Tennessee, has been turning heads across the Southeastern Conference (SEC) with his explosive plays, relentless motor, and sharp football IQ. As the commitment clock ticks down, one visit stood out in particular: his official trip to the University of Kentucky.
Duncum’s journey to becoming a top-tier recruit hasn’t been without effort, and his visit to Lexington may have pushed the Wildcats ahead in the fierce recruiting battle. In this exclusive 2000-word deep dive, we unpack his impressions, behind-the-scenes moments, and what it all means for Mark Stoops and Big Blue Nation.
The Player: Who Is Ben Duncum?
Ben Duncum is more than just a four-star recruit—he’s a complete athlete. Ranked No. 7 among edge rushers nationally and No. 3 in the state of Tennessee by Rivals.com, Duncum plays like a veteran on the field. His high school tape reveals a dynamic mix of finesse and power: he bends around tackles with ease, diagnoses plays swiftly, and never gives up on a pursuit.
Off the field, he’s equally impressive. Coaches rave about his leadership, humility, and cerebral approach to the game. “He’s a film junkie,” said his high school coach, Darren Jennings. “He’s the type of guy who watches an hour of film before breakfast. That’s what separates him.”
The University of Kentucky has quietly built a reputation for defensive development under Head Coach Mark Stoops and Defensive Coordinator Brad White. They’ve churned out NFL-ready defensive linemen and edge rushers over the last few years—names like Josh Allen (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Jamin Davis (Washington Commanders) come to mind.
Duncum sees the trend and knows Kentucky is more than just a basketball school.
“They really prioritize defense. Coach Stoops and Coach White showed me how I’d fit in from day one. It’s a system that lets edge guys eat,” said Duncum.
The Wildcats are also pushing hard to elevate their recruiting profile in the SEC, and Duncum could be a program-defining addition to their 2025 class.
Ben Duncum’s visit began with a warm Kentucky welcome. As his family stepped off the shuttle and into the football complex, the energy was palpable.
“I felt like a priority from the jump,” Duncum said. “From the coaches to the staff to the players—it wasn’t fake love.”
He was greeted by players like Trevin Wallace and Deone Walker, who gave him a real feel of the locker room culture. “It was brotherhood. No egos, no drama. Just guys grinding with a common goal,” Duncum recalled.
One of the highlights? Touring the Joe Craft Football Training Facility, a state-of-the-art complex equipped with everything from hydrotherapy pools to virtual reality film rooms.
“I’ve seen a lot of facilities, but Kentucky’s stood out for how modern and purposeful it is. Everything is designed to make you better.”
Sitting Down with the Coaches
Perhaps the most defining moment of the visit came during a film session with Defensive Coordinator Brad White.
“Coach White broke down my high school film next to Kentucky’s defensive plays. He showed exactly how I’d be used. It wasn’t just hype—it was a plan,” Duncum explained.
According to him, Kentucky envisions him as a hybrid edge/OLB in their 3-4 scheme. The plan? Put him on the field early and let him wreak havoc from different angles.
Coach Stoops also made a powerful impression with his authenticity.
“Coach Stoops was real with me. He didn’t promise me the world. He promised development, accountability, and a shot to compete early.”
That honesty stuck with Duncum, who emphasized how tired he is of empty promises from recruiters.
The Fans and the Atmosphere
What’s a visit without a taste of the fan experience?
Ben got to witness a summer training session open to fans, and the atmosphere shocked him.
“Big Blue Nation doesn’t play. For a June practice, the crowd was crazy. I felt the passion immediately.”
Local fans already knew his name. Young kids asked for selfies. A few fans wore customized shirts with “#DuncumToUK” printed in Kentucky blue.
“It hit me that this fanbase is different. You’re not just another player—you’re family,” he smiled.
Breaking Bread: Team Dinner & Bonding Moments
One part of the trip that Duncum cherished most wasn’t on the itinerary—it was the team dinner.
Held at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, the gathering brought recruits, current players, and coaches together in a relaxed setting.
“It was laughs, stories, and just getting to know guys as humans. No football talk for a while, just vibes.”
That informal connection built a sense of community and gave Duncum a window into what life in Lexington might feel like.
He was also paired with a player host—linebacker Alex Afari Jr.—who showed him around the city and campus.
“Alex was real with me about the grind, the highs, the lows, the school side. He didn’t sugarcoat it, and I appreciated that.”
Academics and Life After Football
The University of Kentucky also made a strong impression on Duncum academically. He’s expressed interest in sports medicine or business marketing, and the staff brought in academic advisors to walk him through custom plans.
“Football is the now, but education is forever. They made it clear I wouldn’t be on my own.”
He visited classrooms, dorm setups, and even met with career services to explore internships post-football. That “whole life” support stood out to his parents.
“As a mom, I want my son to be set up for more than just football. Kentucky gave me that peace,” said his mother, Tasha Duncum.
Where Kentucky Stands Now
So, where does Kentucky stand in Ben Duncum’s recruiting?
If his words mean anything, the Wildcats are near the top—if not already No. 1.
“I left Lexington with a lot to think about. They checked every box—player development, culture, academics, and support.”
Insiders believe his final five schools include Kentucky, Tennessee, LSU, Auburn, and Florida State. But no school has made a stronger push in recent weeks than the Wildcats.
Some even believe he could shut down his recruitment before the season starts.
What Duncum Would Bring to Kentucky
If Duncum commits to Kentucky, it would be a massive win on several fronts:
Star Power: He’d likely be the highest-rated defensive recruit in the class.
Immediate Impact: He’s a plug-and-play option with the athleticism and IQ to contribute early.
Recruiting Momentum: His commitment could trigger a domino effect among other top-tier recruits.
Defensive Versatility: He fits perfectly into the multiple fronts Kentucky runs, offering pressure on the edge and coverage in space.
The Decision Timeline
Ben Duncum has hinted at making his decision before his senior season begins in late August. That gives him just a few more weeks to finalize his thoughts.
“I want to focus on my team and my season. I don’t want distractions. That means a decision is coming soon.”
He’s planning at least one more unofficial visit before he makes the call—but there’s no mistaking that Kentucky made an enormous impression.
Final Thoughts from Duncum
“No matter what I decide, Kentucky will always be a place I respect. They didn’t try to sell me—just showed me who they are.”
That approach—honest, relational, and clear—might just be the winning formula that makes Ben Duncum the newest Wildcat.
Image Alt Text:
Ben Duncum stands confidently in front of Kroger Field during his official visit to Kentucky, wearing a UK jersey and helmet. The stadium looms behind him, symbolizing the weight of the decision ahead.
Closing: Big Blue Nation Awaits
The countdown is officially on. Ben Duncum’s official visit to Kentucky has stirred the hopes of an entire fanbase and potentially reshaped the Wildcats’ 2025 recruiting narrative.
Whether Lexington becomes his future home or not, one thing is clear—Ben Duncum is ready for the next chapter, and the SEC better be watching closely.
