Great News: A Brand New Commitment for the Kentucky Wildcats Football — Bert Auburn Officially Commits to UK, Ushering in a New Era in Lexington….
Lexington, KY – April 29, 2025 — In a move that has shaken up the college football landscape and sent waves of celebration throughout the Bluegrass State, Bert Auburn, one of the most consistent and decorated kickers in recent college football history, has officially committed to the University of Kentucky Wildcats. The news, confirmed late Monday night, is not just a major recruiting win for the Wildcats, but a symbolic moment that underlines the program’s growing national profile under the leadership of Head Coach Mark Stoops.
For Kentucky Football—a program that has steadily risen in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) ranks over the past decade—this is more than just a new commitment. This is a statement.
—
A Kicker Who Needs No Introduction
Bert Auburn’s name is already etched in the minds of college football fans across the country. Previously with the Texas Longhorns, Auburn earned national attention for his accuracy, poise, and ability to deliver in the clutch. With a career field goal percentage of over 92%, multiple game-winning kicks, and a career-long boot of 57 yards, Auburn’s stats read more like those of a seasoned NFL veteran than a collegiate athlete.
He was widely considered the best kicker in the Big 12 and ranked among the top three kickers in the entire NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) over the past two seasons. Auburn was not just reliable—he was exceptional. Time and again, when the pressure was on and the stakes were sky-high, Auburn delivered.
So when news broke that he was exploring a transfer portal move, the floodgates of interest from elite programs across the country opened. From SEC powerhouses to Big Ten blue-bloods, everyone wanted Bert Auburn in their locker room.
But in a stunning turn of events, he chose Kentucky.
—
Why Kentucky?
According to sources close to the Auburn family, the decision came down to a combination of factors: culture, opportunity, and vision. Auburn released a statement shortly after the announcement, explaining his choice in heartfelt terms:
> “I’ve prayed on this decision, talked it through with my family, and thought about where I can grow both as a player and as a person. The University of Kentucky checked every single box. From the coaching staff to the fans, to the future of this program—it just felt right.”
Here’s a breakdown of what drew Auburn to UK:
1. Mark Stoops’ Vision
Coach Mark Stoops has spent over a decade building a culture of toughness, accountability, and player development in Lexington. Under his leadership, Kentucky has evolved from an SEC underdog to a respected contender with multiple bowl victories and nationally-ranked seasons. Auburn reportedly had lengthy conversations with Stoops, who laid out a compelling vision for the future of the Wildcats—a future in which Auburn could play a pivotal role.
2. Immediate Impact
Unlike some programs where the kicker position is solidified or uncertain, Kentucky offered a unique window for Auburn to come in and take the reins. With the departure of previous special teams standouts, Auburn will likely be the starting kicker from Day 1. The opportunity to lead on special teams, take crucial field goals in SEC showdowns, and contribute immediately was too good to pass up.
3. Faith and Family Atmosphere
Known for his strong Christian faith, Auburn reportedly felt an immediate connection with the character-first culture at Kentucky. The emphasis on brotherhood, mentorship, and life beyond football deeply resonated with him.
> “Kentucky felt like home the moment I stepped on campus,” Auburn said. “It wasn’t just about football. It was about values, about community, and about the kind of man I want to become.”
—
A Huge Boost for Special Teams
There’s a reason why top programs prioritize elite kickers—games in the SEC are often decided by razor-thin margins. A missed field goal or a made one from 50+ yards can be the difference between a bowl game invitation and a frustrating loss.
Kentucky, despite its success, has had inconsistency in the kicking game over recent seasons. Bert Auburn solves that issue immediately. His consistency from long range, calmness under pressure, and ability to contribute in any weather make him an invaluable asset.
Special Teams Coordinator Jay Boulware was particularly instrumental in Auburn’s recruitment. Boulware, who has NFL experience and a reputation for maximizing kicking talent, was a huge draw for Auburn.
> “Coach Boulware has a vision for special teams, and he believes in his guys,” Auburn noted. “He told me I could be the best kicker in college football under his guidance—and I believe him.”
—
Fanbase Reaction: A Surge of Excitement
The news of Auburn’s commitment set social media ablaze. Within hours, hashtags like #BertToBBN and #KickingWithAuburn trended in Kentucky and across the nation. UK fans flooded message boards, forums, and Twitter timelines with expressions of joy and anticipation.
> “Game-changer. This guy can win you a title with his leg,” tweeted one Wildcats superfan.
“Mark Stoops is building something special. Bert Auburn is proof of that,” posted another.
UK players also welcomed Auburn with open arms. Quarterback Cutter Boley, wide receiver Dekel Crowdus, and linebacker Trevin Wallace all posted congratulatory messages, calling Auburn a “weapon” and a “beast in clutch time.”
—
SEC on Alert
With Auburn now in the fold, opposing SEC teams must adjust. Kentucky has long been respected for its defense and developing offensive identity—but now, they add a kicker who can change the outcome of any close contest. Teams like Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee can no longer assume any missed opportunities when facing the Wildcats.
This move further signals Kentucky’s rise as a full-spectrum SEC contender—not just strong in one or two areas, but building an all-around powerhouse.
—
What’s Next for Auburn and the Wildcats?
Bert Auburn is expected to enroll at Kentucky in the summer, join offseason training, and prepare for what could be a record-setting season. The Wildcats open their 2025 campaign at home in September, and fans are already marking their calendars to see their new star in action.
Coach Stoops, meanwhile, continues to hunt for key pieces to complement his already impressive roster. But with Bert Auburn now committed, the tone has been set: Kentucky means business.
> “We’re not just here to compete,” Stoops said in a recent interview. “We’re here to win—and win big. Bert’s commitment is another big step toward that goal.”
—
Final Thoughts
In a recruiting cycle full of surprises, Bert Auburn’s commitment to the Kentucky Wildcats stands out as a major coup. Not only does it bolster a critical unit on the field, but it also reinforces the Wildcats’ growing reputation as a destination for elite talent who want more than just football—they want family, faith, and a future.
With a leg as golden as Bert Auburn’s, and a heart just as strong, the Wildcats aren’t just adding points on the scoreboard—they’re adding a cornerstone to a championship-caliber foundation.
Welcome to the Big Blue Nation, Bert Auburn. The journey is just beginning.
Leave a Reply