Another promising Purdue defensive player intends to enter transfer portal

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

WEST LAFAYETTE — The young defensive line core Purdue football built last season may not make it to next season.

Demeco Kennedy became the latest Boilermaker to announce he plans to enter the transfer portal, per reports citing his agency, Ethos Sports Group. The sophomore joins Jamarrion Harkless as interior defensive line players planning to assess their transfer options.

Kennedy played 450 snaps last year — third most among players with the option of returning for 2026. The Kentucky native recorded 21 tackles (three for loss) with 1.5 sacks and one quarterback hurry.

One promising defensive lineman, tackle Ian Jeffries, previously announced he has agreed to a revenue-share contract for next season. Other potential returnees up front who played significant snaps last season include rush ends CJ Madden, Breeon Ishmail and Trey Smith and tackle T.J. Lindsey.

Defensive back Smiley Bradford, another player projected to have a big role in the 2026 defense, also said he plans to enter his name in the portal.

Players can ultimately chose not to enter the portal, which does not open until Friday. They also can withdraw from the portal after entering and remain with their teams.

Nathan Baird and Sam King have the best Purdue sports coverage, and sign up for IndyStar’s Boilermakers newsletter.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Demeco Kennedy to enter transfer portal, leave Purdue football defense

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos