Here’s an in‑depth look at On3’s Pete Nakos prediction, the profile of New Mexico State transfer Seth McGowan, Kentucky’s current running‑back landscape, and what this potential addition means for the Wildcats’ offense:
Kentucky’s early momentum in the spring transfer portal hinges on its pursuit of running back Seth McGowan, a former Oklahoma recruit who revitalized his career at New Mexico State. On3 national analyst Pete Nakos projects that the Wildcats will land McGowan, citing strong connections within the program and a clear path to immediate playing time. McGowan offers a blend of power and receiving ability, standing 6‑1 and weighing 220 pounds, with 813 rushing yards and 277 receiving yards last season. Kentucky’s backfield has promising young talent in Jamarion Wilcox (590 yards, 2 TDs) alongside recent additions like Dante Dowdell, but depth and a dynamic playmaker remain priorities. With coaching ties—McGowan’s lead recruiter at Oklahoma, Jay Boulware, now oversees Kentucky’s backs—the fit seems ideal. Historically, the Wildcats have leveraged the portal effectively, most notably with quarterback Will Levis, who transferred in 2021 and became an NFL Draft pick. Adding McGowan could elevate Kentucky’s ground game and improve offensive versatility for the 2025 season.
Pete Nakos’s Prediction and Rationale
On3 national writer Pete Nakos has identified Seth McGowan as Kentucky’s top spring portal target and predicts the Wildcats will successfully secure his commitment . Nakos highlights Kentucky’s “early momentum” driven by established relationships and a roster need at running back . He points to McGowan’s immediate eligibility and the Wildcats’ track record of maximizing portal additions as key factors .
Seth McGowan: Profile and Resume
Collegiate Performance
Seth McGowan, a 6‑1, 220‑pound back, rushed for 813 yards on 153 carries (5.3 yards per carry) and added 277 receiving yards with three touchdowns for New Mexico State in 2024 . He entered the portal on April 17, 2025, and sources view Kentucky as the frontrunner to land him .
Off‑Field Path and Redemption
Originally a four‑star recruit for Oklahoma’s 2020 class, McGowan logged 370 yards as a freshman but was dismissed amid an armed‑robbery investigation, pleading guilty to larceny and serving one year of probation . He rebuilt his career at Texas College (NAIA) in 2022 and Butler Community College in 2023 before flourishing at New Mexico State .
Recruit Pedigree and Physical Traits
As part of the 2020 recruiting cycle, McGowan was rated a four‑star prospect, ranked No. 154 nationally and No. 20 among running backs by On3’s Industry Comparison with a 92.56 rating . According to NFLDraftBuzz, he posted a 40‑yard dash time of 4.55 seconds, stands 6‑1, weighs 220 pounds, and projects as a dual‑role back, albeit UDFA in the 2025 NFL Draft .
Kentucky’s Running Back Room and Program Fit
Current Depth and Portal Strategy
Kentucky returns redshirt freshman Jamarion Wilcox, who led the team with 590 rushing yards (6.4 avg.) and two touchdowns in 2024 . The Wildcats also added Dante Dowdell from Nebraska (614 yards, 12 TDs in 2024) this offseason . Additionally, UK has shown interest in Utah State’s Rahsul Faison (1,109 yards, 8 TDs) but faces stiff competition . Adding McGowan would bolster depth and offer a three‑down threat.
Coaching Connections and Scheme Fit
McGowan’s former lead blocker at New Mexico State, Shiyazh Pete, projects as Kentucky’s starting left tackle, ensuring offensive cohesion . His initial recruiter at Oklahoma, Jay Boulware, now Kentucky’s running backs coach, provides continuity and belief in McGowan’s abilities . The Wildcats’ zone‑stretch scheme under Mark Stoops rewards physical, versatile backs like McGowan.
Portal Success and Historical Perspective
Kentucky’s blueprint for portal success was established in 2021 when former Penn State quarterback Will Levis transferred to Lexington, earned the starting role, and culminated his career as an NFL Draft second‑round pick . That move demonstrated Kentucky’s ability to identify fit, leverage connections, and offer significant playing opportunities. McGowan represents a similar profile: high upside, existing staff relationships, and immediate impact potential.
Outlook and Impact
If McGowan commits, Kentucky’s projected backfield for 2025 would feature:
Seth McGowan: Power back with pass‑catching ability and portal pedigree.
Jamarion Wilcox: Explosive returner with 6.4 yards per carry and proven SEC experience.
Dante Dowdell: Complementary north‑south runner with scoring prowess.
Rahsul Faison (if retained): Athletic bruiser for depth.
This quartet would improve offensive balance, relieve pressure on quarterback Brock Vandagriff, and open play‑action opportunities. McGowan’s involvement in the passing game adds mismatch potential against linebackers.
Conclusion
Pete Nakos’s forecast that Kentucky will land Seth McGowan rests on tangible factors: the player’s performance, staff connections, and program need. McGowan’s versatile skill set and redemption story align with Kentucky’s recent portal success and strategic approach. Should the Wildcats secure his commitment, their running back room would transform into one of the SEC’s deepest and most dynamic units for the 2025 season.
