LEXINGTON, Ky. — Kentucky football will be without its leading rusher when it goes bowling this postseason. Ray Davis announced on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he will declare for the 2024 NFL Draft and opt out of playing in a bowl game with the Wildcats.

“After long talks with my family and friends, I will be declaring for the 2024 NFL draft,” Davis said. “This has always been a dream of mine and is a challenge I’m ready to take on.” 

The running back thanked Kentucky fans, coaches and staff. He also thanked his previous teams — Vanderbilt and Temple.

Davis was Kentucky’s feature back during the 2023 season, rushing for 1,066 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. The versatile back also racked up 317 receiving yards and hauling in seven touchdown receptions. His 20 total touchdowns broke a single-season touchdown record held by Benny Snell.

In his one season as a Wildcat, Davis had a huge impact on the offense and reached several impressive benchmarks for the season. He is currently third nationally in total touchdowns (20), fourth nationally in total points scored (12), sixth nationally in scoring (10.0) and 15th nationally in rushing touchdowns (13). His breakout season has landed him on many award watch lists, including the Maxwell Award, the Doak Walker Award and as an All-American candidate.

A graduate transfer, Davis played two seasons at Vanderbilt (2021-22) and two at Temple (2019-20) before donning the Wildcat blue and white. Davis caps off a spectacular career at all three schools, becoming the first active player in Division 1 football to rush for 1,000 yards at three different programs. He is also the first player in Southeastern Conference history to gain 1,000 rushing yards at two different SEC programs.

In his final game as a Wildcat against in-state archrival Louisville, Davis carried the ball 14 times for 76 yards, including the game-winning 37-yard touchdown jaunt. He also caught four passes for 51 yards, including two touchdown catches.