Kentucky Offensive Lineman Out for an Extended Time with Injury

Mark Stoops previously listed a number of players who will be missing a significant amount of the season with injuries, and now we can add to that list. On Monday, Stoops broke the news that offensive tackle Courtland Ford will miss an extended amount of time this season.

With that, Stoops still really likes the offensive line group that includes a lot of returning experience. "I like that group. I feel like we’re improving," Stoops told media on Monday. "Everybody always wants to continue to build the depth that we’re looking for. We have to continue to bring some young guys along that we feel like can help and will be needed to help at some point this season. I think the additions, with (Gerald) Mincey and (Jalen) Farmer, have really helped us. I feel that presence, I feel the physicality out there. Not perfect and still a work in progress, but I think we’re getting better.”

Last season, Ford transferred to Kentucky after playing three seasons at USC, and would have been looking for more time with a bigger role, but will be sidelined for an extended period of time this season with an injury. Those starting on Saturday for the offensive line against Southern Miss include Marques Cox, Jager Burton, Eli Cox, Jalen Farmer, and Gerald Mincey. With Stoops feeling good about the offensive line heading into the first game, that's a good sign with all of the unknowns surrounding Kentucky's offense with how little of a glimpse fans have gotten leading into Saturday.

Ford's injury is a hit for Kentucky's depth in the offensive line room, but there are bright spots with experience and others who will need to step up that Stoops is confident in.