Kentucky football picked up a huge commitment from four-star Chris Oats, who chose the Wildcats over Ohio State on Wednesday.

Oats, a linebacker from Cincinnati, Ohio, was a top priority for Mark Stoops and Vince Marrow to close the 2018 recruiting class. Ranked the No. 22 outside linebacker in the 2018 class by 247sports, he led Winston Woods to a 13-2 overall record and an appearance in the Division II state championship game this past season.

Having 20 players already signed in December allowed recruiting coordinator Vince Marrow to zone in on Oats, rather than focusing on a number of guys before signing day.

“Signing them guys and having 20 guys secure really played a factor in me going full bore on Chris Oats,” said Marrow. “When you’re trying to get that type of kid, its constant.”

Kentucky fans have gotten used to Alabama and Ohio State coming in late to steal talent away from the Wildcats but having the early signing period makes it much harder for Nick Saban and Urban Meyer to do so.

“If we didn’t have the early signing period, we probably would’ve been battling Ohio State for two more guys that are already locked in.”

In all, the Wildcats signed five players from Ohio in the 2018 class but anytime you can go head to head with Ohio State for an in-state player they want says volumes about the direction of the football program.

“Our logo is probably the second most, probably the last three years, been the second most dominant logo in recruiting in Ohio,” said Marrow. “This kid is a really good football player.”

As for Oats, the environment in Lexington and an academic program that he is interested in really helped him decide Kentucky is the place for him.

“I’m looking forward to the wonderful environment it has in store,” said Oats. “The University of Kentucky has a great broadcasting major that interest me.”

Despite ending the season losing 4-of-5 games, the Wildcats didn’t lose any momentum on the recruiting trail. However, replacing Xavier Peters, who recently de-committed from Kentucky, was a must for Mark Stoops. Oats has the ability to play in space and cover, something he believes will help get him on the field early and he has high expectations for himself.

“My goals for the next four years are to become SEC Freshman of the Year, win an SEC Championship, and get drafted to the NFL first round.”

Ever since it was announced that the Wildcats were recruiting Oats, fans were excited about the possibility of him coming to Lexington. His message for the fans is one that they will love to hear.

“Fans can expect to see a fierce competitor, effort, and someone who loves to have fun while playing football as a humble beast.”

Humble beast? I like it.