The Kentucky Wildcats have strengthened their offensive line with the addition of Shiyazh Pete, an impressive offensive tackle transferring from New Mexico State. Pete made his commitment official via Twitter on Sunday.
Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 320 pounds, Pete adds size, strength, and valuable experience to a Kentucky offensive line aiming to make an impact in the SEC. After spending four seasons at New Mexico State, where he started at left tackle for three years, Pete is finishing his eligibility in a Power Five conference.
Originally from Montana, Pete saw significant development during his senior season, earning recognition for his strong play as a blindside pass protector. Known for his physicality, fast footwork, and solid quarterback protection, he became one of the most sought-after transfers in the portal.
Pete chose Kentucky over Vanderbilt, where his former quarterback Diego Pavia and several former coaches are now coaching. His decision is a sign of Kentucky’s growing appeal as a top destination for transfer talent. He was also heavily pursued by Michigan and Nebraska, with On3’s Steve Wiltfong identifying them as favorites before Pete ultimately picked Kentucky.
Head coach Mark Stoops and offensive line coach Eric Wolford played a key role in securing Pete’s commitment. With several starters leaving, Kentucky needed to revamp its offensive line, and Pete’s arrival helps meet that need, providing a reliable presence up front.
Pete’s addition is a major boost for Kentucky, which is aiming to dominate the trenches once again. With his experience and abilities, Pete is expected to make an immediate impact in the 2025 season.
In addition to Pete, Kentucky has added four other key players to its offensive line.
- Joshua Braun, a 6-foot-6, 238-pound interior lineman who started all 24 games at Arkansas over the past two years, brings one year of eligibility.
- Alex Wollschlaeger, a 6-foot-7, 305-pound offensive tackle from Bowling Green, is a three-year starter at right tackle with over 2,400 career snaps and one year of eligibility left.
- Wallace Unamba, a 6-foot-4, 330-pound lineman, started 10 games at right tackle for New Mexico in 2024, also with one year of eligibility remaining.
- Evan Wibberley, a 6-foot-5, 296-pound interior lineman, started 15 consecutive games at center for WKU, accumulating nearly 800 snaps as a redshirt sophomore, with two years of eligibility left.
With Pete rounding out the revamped offensive line, Kentucky’s Big Blue Wall looks poised to be much stronger heading into the 2025 season after a rough year in 2024.