Former Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Hardley Gilmore IV transferred to Nebraska in late December, seeking a fresh start and a bigger role. However, just over three months later, he has been dismissed from the Cornhuskers’ program.
Once considered a rising star in the SEC, Gilmore’s journey has taken another unexpected turn, as Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule confirmed on Saturday that the sophomore wide receiver is no longer with the team. No additional details were provided about the reason for his dismissal.
Gilmore, a former four-star recruit in the 2024 class, arrived at Kentucky with high expectations. Ranked as the No. 367 overall player and No. 56 wide receiver nationally, he was known for his explosive playmaking ability.
After missing the first seven games of his freshman season due to a broken collarbone, Gilmore returned late in the year and quickly made an impact. In just five games, he recorded six receptions for 153 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his big-play potential and earning praise from the coaching staff.
However, after things seemed to be improving, Gilmore entered the transfer portal on December 28. While there was speculation he could return to Kentucky, he ultimately committed to Nebraska, reuniting with former UK wide receivers coach Daikiel Shorts and teammate Dane Key, who had also transferred to the Cornhuskers.
With Gilmore’s departure, Nebraska will move forward without the once-promising receiver. Meanwhile, Kentucky’s wide receiver room has been bolstered by portal transfers Kendrick Law (Alabama), Troy Stellato (Clemson), and J.J. Hester (Oklahoma), in addition to returning veterans Ja’Mori Maclin and Fred Farrier II. Wide receivers coach L’Damian Washington will lead a talented and experienced group heading into the 2025 season.
Gilmore’s future remains uncertain as he looks for another opportunity to get his career back on track. There’s also speculation about whether Kentucky could consider bringing him back, as reports from Rivals’ Justin Rowland and KSR’s ZacK Geoghegan suggest that a return to Lexington is possible.
Kentucky could certainly use an extra weapon at wide receiver, but head coach Mark Stoops has emphasized the importance of building a strong team culture. Given Gilmore’s recent dismissal from Nebraska and a December charge of misdemeanor assault for allegedly punching someone in the face at a Lexington storage facility, his return could raise questions.
This is a situation worth keeping an eye on.
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