Phil Hoskins gives UK much-needed DL depth

One of the biggest needs for UK in 2017 was defensive line help.

Not only does Phil Hoskins give them this, but the big defensive tackle also has the potential to play this coming season. The three-star JUCO linemen signed with UK while holding offers from Arkansas, Baylor, Colorado, Houston, Mississippi State, and Oklahoma State among others.

247 has Hoskins ranked as the fourth-best JUCO defensive tackle in addition to being the 43rd-best JUCO recruit in 2017. While he may not have the same hype as some other UK signees, Hoskins may end up contributing in 2017 as much as any new Wildcat.

Here is his official UK bio:

Phil Hoskins, Defensive Lineman, 6-5, 280, So-Tr, Toledo, Ohio (Whitmer/Highland CC) – Strong junior college prospect … Was a three-star recruit by all of the major recruiting services out of high school before going to junior college … Among JUCO players, Scout ranks him 77th overall, while ESPN ranks him the No. 11 defensive tackle in the nation … Redshirted the 2016 season … Had 25 tackles his freshman season at Highland (Kan.) with eight TFL and four sacks in playing multiple positions along the defensive line … Named Three Rivers Athletic Conference (TRAC) All-Conference honorable mention as a senior in 2014 at Whitmer, playing for coach Jerry Bell … Has a wing span of 84 inches … Has three years of eligibility remaining … Chose Kentucky over Arkansas, Baylor, Mississippi State, Houston and Oklahoma State.

Coach Stoops says: “Phil has great size and length. He has shown the ability to rush the passer. We’re excited that he comes in as a junior college player with three years of eligibility remaining.”