Jordan Castell earns national honors following Kentucky’s first win ever at Oklahoma

In order for Kentucky Football to get its first road win ever vs. the Oklahoma Sooners in Norman, the Wildcats needed a special performance from someone. They got just that from Jordan Castell, who picked off two passes: One on a fake field-goal attempt deep in Kentucky territory in the first half, and then on a pick-six he snagged late in the fourth quarter. He also racked up nine tackles and a pass defense.

In a game that saw Kentucky lead by just one in the closing minutes, it’s safe to say the game in Norman would have gone very differently if not for the senior safety having arguably the best game of his four-year college career.

After being named SEC Defensive Player of the Week and the Senior Bowl’s National Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, Castell is now getting more national love.

On Tuesday, Castell was named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week, the Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week, and the Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week.

According to Pro Football Focus, Castell’s 77.5 defensive grade is Kentucky’s second-highest mark, trailing only Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace (78.9). His 81.0 run defense grade leads the Wildcats, and his 73.8 coverage grade trails only Ty Bryant (76.3).

Thanks to the NCAA’s new five-in-five rule, Castell technically has one season of eligibility remaining. But if he keeps this up, the Florida transfer could be hearing his name called in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Download the SB Nation app on Apple and Android devices to chat with us! And Go CATS!!