Kentucky Football is losing depth at the linebacker position as De’Niro Laster announces his decision to transfer from the program.

Laster is an original transfer from the University of Minnesota. He had been set to enter his senior season as a component of this Kentucky Football defense. Additionally, the linebacker would have added much needed depth at the position.

Not sure who reported it first ( traveling) but I can confirm De'Niro Laster transfer. He graduates in May, will play last season elsewhere. — Jen Smith (@jenheraldleader) February 25, 2017

Some news: UK rising senior LB De'Niro Laster is transfering https://t.co/NTZAPXvKvu — Jon Hale (@JonHale_CJ) February 25, 2017

Jon Hale of the Courier Journal mentioned that Laster would graduate in the spring and will finish his last season of eligibility elsewhere.

De’Niro Laster had transferred to Kentucky in 2015. This season, Laster had tallied just 14 tackles. In context, the Cleveland Heights, Ohio native dealt with a serious injury after just five contests.

Linebackers Entering Spring

Kentucky has a set of young linebackers on the roster. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of them who have SEC defensive experience. Starters Courtney Love in addition to Jordan Jones take heed of the middle of the field on the inside spot. Junior Denzil Ware as well as 2016 sack leader Joshua Allen anchor the edges on the outside.

In addition to those four, the inexperience takes over. Jaylen Bannerman, Eli Brown, Jordan Bonner look to be the reserves on the outside. Sophomore Kash Daniel will be the guy on the field in relief of Courtney Love.

Losing Laster means that the Wildcats will have to rely on the youth movement in order to fill the void. The former Kentucky Linebacker wants fans to know that he will always be a part of the Big Blue Nation.

BBN Forever !!!!! — De'Niro Laster (@Mucho_Deniro) February 25, 2017

Looking Ahead

The Kentucky Football has ambition to contend for an SEC East title next season. If they want to reach their goals, there will have to be some guys to step up and take the role of the relief man.

Other than Jordan Jones’ breakout season, and Josh Allen’s ability to get to the quarterback, this Kentucky linebacker group needs to have an improved year across the board.