In-state recruiting is always a focus of the best programs in college football, but it’s especially important in states where multiple options are present.
Think Florida or California, for instance.
In-state recruiting is also important in states where a huge rivalry is present. For example, any time Michigan lands a recruit over Michigan State, that’s a big deal. Same thing for Auburn and Alabama.
In the state of Kentucky, that rivalry is between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Louisville Cardinals, and Jeff Brohm’s program just picked up a massive recruiting win in that regard.
Evan Hampton, four-star running back from Owensboro, Kentucky, has committed to Louisville. Kentucky, Michigan, Vanderbilt and NC State were also in the mix.
“Just felt like home,” Hampton told Steve Wiltfong of On3 regarding his commitment. “The coaches were key, I had some great relationships built. I love what coach Brohm has going and I want to be a part of it.”
Not only is this a big win for Louisville with Kentucky also being in the running, but Hampton projects to be a signature recruit for the Cardinals.
Hampton is the No. 1 player in the state and the No. 26 running back in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite.
