QB Jake Nawrot Commits to Kentucky After JV Start

The 4-star recruit went from junior varsity to SEC standout in just two years.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:45am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric planes in shades of blue, white, and gold, conceptually representing the dynamic energy and potential of a young quarterback joining the Kentucky Wildcats football program.A geometric, cubist-inspired illustration captures the dynamic energy and potential of a rising young quarterback joining the Kentucky Wildcats.Arlington Heights Today

Jake Nawrot, a 4-star quarterback recruit from Illinois, has verbally committed to play for the University of Kentucky after a meteoric rise from the junior varsity team to being ranked as the No. 2 QB in the 2027 high school class. Just two years ago, Nawrot was not even a starter on his high school's varsity basketball team, but with hard work and his coach's belief in him, he blossomed into one of the top quarterback prospects in the country, drawing offers from numerous Power 5 programs before choosing to join the Wildcats.

Why it matters

Nawrot's commitment is a major recruiting win for Kentucky, which has been working to build its football program into a consistent contender in the SEC. Landing a top-ranked quarterback like Nawrot is a significant step in that process and could help the Wildcats attract more elite talent in the future.

The details

After playing junior varsity football as a sophomore, Nawrot exploded onto the scene as a junior, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 41 touchdowns. His breakout performance caught the attention of numerous college programs, and he ultimately chose Kentucky over offers from Oregon, Iowa, Kansas State, and others. Nawrot cited the 'different atmosphere' at Kentucky and his belief that he can help 'change the culture and make it a football school' as key factors in his decision.

  • In 2024, Nawrot was on the junior varsity football team at John Hersey High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
  • In 2025, he threw for over 3,000 yards and 41 touchdowns during his junior season.
  • On April 13, 2026, Nawrot verbally committed to play for the University of Kentucky.

The players

Jake Nawrot

A 4-star quarterback recruit from Illinois who went from junior varsity to being ranked as the No. 2 QB in the 2027 high school class.

Will Stein

The head football coach at the University of Kentucky, who was instrumental in recruiting Nawrot to join the Wildcats.

Will Levis

The former Penn State transfer who led Kentucky to 10 wins in 2021 and was a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans.

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What they’re saying

“God just put it on my heart and I felt good to go. I am excited and ready to get there.”

— Jake Nawrot, Quarterback

“I never expected all this attention and it is more attention than I need. I have proven nothing yet at the college level but I know this is all such a blessing and do not take any of it for granted.”

— Jake Nawrot, Quarterback

What’s next

Nawrot will look to continue his development and build on his impressive high school career when he arrives at Kentucky. The Wildcats will be hoping he can follow in the footsteps of former QB Will Levis and help elevate the program to new heights.

The takeaway

Jake Nawrot's remarkable rise from junior varsity to top-ranked quarterback recruit is an inspiring story of hard work, determination, and the power of belief. His commitment to Kentucky represents a major recruiting victory for the Wildcats as they aim to establish themselves as a consistent contender in the SEC.