The Kentucky Wildcats have enhanced their running back corps by securing the commitment of Seth McGowan, a former four-star recruit who has played at Oklahoma and New Mexico State. Standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 220 pounds, McGowan is recognized for his combination of power, speed, and versatility. His addition is timely, as Kentucky had only four scholarship running backs on the roster following spring practice .
McGowan’s collegiate journey has been unconventional. He began his career at Oklahoma in 2020, rushing for 370 yards and four touchdowns as a freshman. However, he was dismissed from the program in 2021 due to legal issues stemming from an armed robbery investigation, which led to a guilty plea for larceny and a year of probation .
After his departure from Oklahoma, McGowan took time away from Division I football. He resumed his career at Texas College in 2022, followed by a stint at Butler Community College in 2023. In 2024, he joined New Mexico State, where he showcased his skills by rushing for 813 yards on 5.3 yards per carry and catching 23 passes .
McGowan’s connection to Kentucky is strengthened by his relationship with running backs coach Jay Boulware, who was his lead recruiter at Oklahoma. Additionally, he was teammates at New Mexico State with offensive tackle Shiyazh Pete, who committed to Kentucky earlier in the offseason .
The Wildcats’ running back room was in need of depth heading into the 202 … , making McGowan’s … With his Power Five experience and proven productivity, he is expected to make an immediate impact in Kentucky … .
McGowan’s commitment adds to Kentucky’s efforts to strengthen their roster through the transfer portal. Earlier, the Wildcats secured running back Dante Dowdell from Nebraska, who rushed for 614 yards and 12 touchdowns in the 2024 season .
With the addition of McGowan, Kentucky now boasts a more formidable running back lineup, providing the team with multiple options in the backfield. This move reflects the Wildcats’ commitment to enhancing their offensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
As McGowan transitions to Kentucky, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a determination to prove himself at the SEC level. His journey from Oklahoma to New Mexico State, and now to Kentucky, underscores his resilience and readiness to contribute to the Wildcats’ success in the 2025 season
