Purdue's top rated commit in the 2023 class, Kendrick Gilbert, has announced a signing day flip and will instead sign with Kentucky. The four-star recruit from Indiana committed to Purdue out of a final group that included LSU, Kentucky and Iowa on Aug. 28. Gilbert's recruitment took some twists and turns along the way with many speculating that LSU and Kentucky were the early favorites until he ultimately announced his pledge to the Boilermakers.

An even bigger twist in Gilbert's recruitment occurred when former Purdue head coach Jeff Brohm accepted the Louisville job which in turn gave the defensive lineman plenty to consider. Gilbert remained steady with his pledge to the Boilermakers, but also opted to forgo signing during the early period and chose to explore his options. New Purdue coach Ryan Walters and staff worked hard to keep Gilbert on board, but the timing of Walters' hire did little to help the new staff and Gilbert ultimately decided to go to a Kentucky team that never stopped recruiting him.

Defensive lineman of Gilbert's caliber come at a premium as we approach the late signing period and Kentucky was able to land one of the best unsigned players at a position of incredible value. Adding a four-star who was previously committed elsewhere via a signing day flip is a big deal in and of itself and Gilbert strengthens the Wildcat's defensive line room upon his arrival.The Rivals250 defensive lineman has a huge frame, is extremely twitched up for his size, and will be a disruptive force in the run game while also adding an interior pass rush element. Gilbert is a little raw and his best football is still in front of him, but this is a player with major upside and should be considered a huge win for Kentucky.