The Kentucky native and rising Knoxville standout is the first pledge in the Wildcats’ 2027 class.
The Kentucky Wildcats have secured a major early commitment for the future, landing 2027 quarterback DJ Hunter out of Bearden High School in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The 6-foot-2, 195-pound rising junior announced his pledge to the Wildcats following a visit to Lexington this past weekend.
Although currently unranked due to his class year, Hunter is already drawing attention after an impressive season in 2023. Despite only playing eight games due to an early injury, he completed 76/142 passes for 1,431 yards and nine touchdowns while also rushing for three more scores. His arm strength, mobility, and poise in the pocket make him a promising dual-threat option in Kentucky’s future quarterback room.
Hunter transferred to Bearden last season and quickly emerged as a leader and playmaker. His strong finish has positioned him as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the southeast for the 2027 class.
Kentucky’s coaching staff, led by head coach Mark Stoops and offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan, moved quickly to make an impression. With Hunter becoming the first commitment in the 2027 class, the Wildcats are off to a strong start on the long-term recruiting trail. If his development continues on this path, DJ Hunter could be a name to watch in Lexington for years to come.
1,000% committed I’m coming home BBN ⚪️ @UKFootball @UKCoachStoops @FBCoachWolf @BushHamdan @fhscoachjones @AdamLuckettKSR @RivalsFriedman @RowlandRIVALS @On3sports @Rivals @247Sports pic.twitter.com/wNmia9F63F
— DJ Hunter (@raisethebowdj_4) April 7, 2025
2027 QB DJ Hunter announced his commitment to Kentucky, and Wildcats HC Mark Stoops was HYPED to hear the news
( : raisethebowdj_4/IG)
More from @AdamLuckettKSR: https://t.co/Tp9tuOae4Z pic.twitter.com/Ve2Nw3wiVq
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) April 8, 2025
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