Alex Afari Jr. returns to the field for Kentucky against Youngstown State

Kentucky linebacker Alex Afari Jr. appeared in the Wildcats' season opener against Youngstown State at Kroger Field on Saturday, Sept. 5. The fifth-year player entered the game during the second half of the contest. His participation follows a successful legal effort to secure an additional year of college eligibility. Afari, who began his career at Kentucky in 2022, has now made 49 total appearances for the program, including 31 starts. Over the previous four seasons, he recorded 193 tackles, 26.5 tackles for loss, and six sacks. The linebacker also registered three pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery during that span.

• 7:12 PMYahoo Sports — Kentucky football LB Alex Afari Jr. plays in Wildcats' opener