Kentucky Wildcats Football: Changes, Additions, and Potential Impact of Michigan’s Matthew Hibner
The Kentucky Wildcats football program has experienced a series of developments in recent weeks. Following the departure of Liam Coen, the program reportedly welcomed Bush Hamdan as the new offensive coordinator, signaling a period of transition for Kentucky.
Adding to the news cycle, Michigan Wolverines tight end Matthew Hibner announced via Twitter on Saturday that he has received an offer from the Wildcats.
Extremely thankful to receive an offer from Kentucky! @vincemarrow pic.twitter.com/Cz2xQE8fGI
— Matthew Hibner (@MatthewHibner) February 10, 2024
Hibner’s decision to enter the transfer portal in January, amidst the departure of head coach Jim Harbaugh from the Wolverines, indicates a desire for a more prominent role within an offense. Despite Michigan’s recent National Championship victory, Hibner seeks an opportunity for greater impact, and Kentucky appears to offer that potential.
Originally recruited as a 4-star prospect and the seventh-ranked tight end in the class of 2020 according to 247 Sports, Hibner did not receive an offer from Kentucky during his initial recruitment out of Virginia, a state not frequently targeted under Mark Stoops’ tenure.
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, Hibner has been part of the Michigan program since 2020, although he saw limited playing time in his first two seasons. Despite primarily contributing on special teams, Hibner has appeared in 20 games over the past two seasons, recording just two receptions for 15 yards.