The Kentucky Wildcats’ running back room just got a major boost.
Seth McGowan, a former four-star recruit and New Mexico State standout, has officially committed to the Wildcats out of the transfer portal.
The 6-foot-1 and 220-pound back brings several important traits to the running-back room, including power and speed. Add that in with plenty of experience, and he joins a Kentucky position group in need of depth heading into the 2025 season.
McGowan’s college journey has been anything but ordinary. Originally from Mesquite (TX) the Poteet High School product signed with Oklahoma in 2020, rushing for 370 yards and four total touchdowns as a true freshman in the Big 12. His lead recruiter at the time? Current Kentucky running backs coach Jay Boulware.
Following his dismissal from Oklahoma during an armed robbery investigation — which led to a guilty plea for larceny and a year of probation — McGowan took time away from the Division I level. He later resumed his career at Texas College (NAIA) in 2022, then played at Butler Community College in 2023 before landing at New Mexico State.
In 2024, McGowan reminded everyone why he was once one of the top backs in the country. He rushed for 813 yards on 5.3 yards per carry and caught 23 passes, showcasing both his elusiveness and versatility.
He was also teammates at New Mexico State with offensive tackle Shiyazh Pete — who committed to Kentucky earlier this offseason — adding another layer of familiarity as he makes his move to Lexington.
The Wildcats exited spring practice with just four scholarship running backs on the roster, making McGowan’s addition both timely and significant. With Power Five experience, a full season of production behind him, and a strong connection to the coaching staff, McGowan could make an immediate impact in Kentucky’s backfield rotation.
After a long and winding road, the talented tailback now has a fresh start — and to prove himself in the SEC.
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