Josh Paschal Diagnosed With Malignant Melanoma

Coach Mark Stoops began today’s Kentucky Media Day with some terrible news. The Wildcats head man announced defensive end Josh Paschal and offensive line coach John Schlarman are both dealing with significant health issues. The sophomore learned he is dealing with the melanoma after having a lesion surgically removed from his foot.

Mark Stoops announces that Josh Paschal’s skin lesions came back as malignant melanoma. He’s having another procedure on Wednesday. — Jen Smith (@jenheraldleader) August 3, 2018

Paschal originally had a procedure done last week and was expected to miss most of the preseason. However the coaches thought he would be back for the September 1st opener against Central Michigan. As a result of today’s news there is no time table for his return. Stoops told reporters “Josh and his family are handling this well. They wanted to be open about this and to be a reminder of people to pay attention to any changes in their skin.”

Expected To Have A Big Season

Playing in all 13 games last season as a true freshmen, Paschal recorded 17 tackles. In addition he 4.5 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks. He recorded his first ever start in the 24-23 loss in the Music City Bowl. His first career tackle against Southern Mississippi all but clinched the win late in the game for the Cats.

With Denzil Ware‘s departure Paschal was expected to be a leader on the defense in 2018. The sophomore is expected to begin treatment next week. Obviously there is no time table for his return.

A Coach Dealing With Medical Issues

In addition to Paschal, Stoops had more bad news when it came to Schlarman. The former UK letterman, who has been on the staff since the coach came to Kentucky is dealing with an undisclosed medial issue. Schlarman will continue to coach but may have to miss time to undergo more testing.

"Our hearts and prayers are with Josh and John as they battle this issue," Coach Stoops says. #BBN, we could obviously use your thoughts and prayers as well for two incredibly strong men. — Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) August 3, 2018

Last Word On College Football will provide appropriate updates as they become available.