Alex Afari, a standout linebacker who spent the last two seasons at Kentucky, is weighing the possibility of extending his college career into 2026.
The NCAA’s recent adjustment to eligibility rules now permits players who have exhausted their four‑year eligibility without a redshirt year to claim a fifth season, a change that has sparked interest among several former Wildcats.
Having taken part in the Green Bay Packers’ offseason minicamp, Afari brings professional experience to a decision that could see him back in Lexington.
Kentucky’s linebacker corps is already crowded with returning players such as Bo Barnes, Tavion Wallace and Antwan Smith, but a veteran presence like Afari could add depth and leadership.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Afari’s entire collegiate trajectory has been tied to the University of Kentucky, making his potential return a notable storyline for the program.
A Rare NFL‑to‑College Decision
If Afari ultimately decides to return, it would represent an uncommon move for a player who has already tested the professional ranks, underscoring the evolving landscape of college football eligibility.