Martels Carter Becomes Kentucky’s Second Top-200 Commit in the Class of 2025
The University of Kentucky continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, securing a significant commitment in Martels Carter, a top-200 prospect in the class of 2025. Carter, a dynamic athlete and four-star wide receiver from Atlanta, Georgia, is the second top-200 player to pledge to the Wildcats this cycle, joining an increasingly impressive recruiting class for head coach Mark Stoops and his staff.
Carter’s commitment not only strengthens Kentucky’s 2025 class but also signals the program’s ability to compete with powerhouse programs for elite talent. As a versatile offensive weapon with the potential to elevate the Wildcats’ passing attack, Carter’s decision is a massive win for a program looking to take the next step in the SEC.
Standing 6’0” and weighing 180 pounds, Carter is a game-breaking receiver who combines elite speed, exceptional route-running, and reliable hands. Playing for Cedar Grove High School, Carter has been a standout performer, showcasing his ability to dominate against top competition in Georgia.
In his junior season, Carter recorded 65 receptions for 1,145 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning all-state honors and solidifying his status as one of the most explosive playmakers in the country. His agility and quickness make him a threat in open space, while his ability to make contested catches demonstrates his toughness and competitive edge.
Carter’s skill set aligns perfectly with modern offenses that value versatility and the ability to create mismatches. His combination of physical tools and football IQ has drawn comparisons to some of the best wide receivers in recent college football history.
Carter had offers from several top programs, including Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, but ultimately chose Kentucky for a variety of reasons. His decision reflects the growing appeal of the Wildcats’ program and the relationships he built with the coaching staff.
Carter cited his trust in Mark Stoops and the program’s trajectory as key factors in his decision. “Coach Stoops and the staff have a clear vision for what they want to build at Kentucky,” Carter said. “They’ve shown they can develop players and compete in the SEC, and I want to be a part of that.”
Under Stoops’ leadership, Kentucky has transformed from an SEC afterthought into a consistently competitive program. The Wildcats have established a reputation for developing talent and sending players to the NFL, which played a significant role in Carter’s commitment.
Offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who returned to Kentucky in 2023, has implemented a pro-style offense that emphasizes balance and creativity. Carter believes his skill set will thrive in Coen’s system, which allows receivers to showcase their versatility and make plays at all levels of the field.
“The way Coach Coen uses his receivers really stood out to me,” Carter explained. “They find ways to get their playmakers the ball in space, and I know I can make an impact in that system.”
Beyond football, Carter felt a strong connection to the culture and community at Kentucky. The family atmosphere fostered by the coaching staff and the bond he developed with current players and recruits solidified his decision.
“From the moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home,” Carter said. “Everyone was welcoming, and I could see myself being a part of this family.”
Carter is the second top-200 commit in Kentucky’s 2025 class, joining four-star linebacker Jaden McKinley, another highly regarded prospect. Their commitments signal a shift in the Wildcats’ recruiting strategy, as the staff aims to compete with traditional SEC powers for top-tier talent.
Carter’s addition addresses a critical need for Kentucky, as the Wildcats look to add more explosive playmakers to their roster. His presence will help elevate the team’s passing game and provide quarterback Devin Harding, a promising 2024 signee, with a reliable target.
Moreover, Carter’s commitment could create momentum for Kentucky on the recruiting trail. High-profile recruits often attract attention from their peers, and Carter’s decision may inspire other top players to consider the Wildcats.
Landing a player of Carter’s caliber is a testament to the progress Kentucky has made under Stoops. The Wildcats have consistently punched above their weight in the highly competitive SEC, and adding elite recruits like Carter demonstrates their ability to sustain that success.
In recent years, Kentucky has built its reputation on physical defense and a strong rushing attack. While those elements remain foundational, the addition of playmakers like Carter signals a shift toward a more dynamic and balanced offensive approach.
Carter’s potential to make an immediate impact on the field cannot be overstated. His ability to stretch defenses vertically and create explosive plays will be invaluable as Kentucky looks to contend with the SEC’s elite programs.
Martels Carter’s commitment to Kentucky is a monumental win for the Wildcats and a testament to the program’s growth under Mark Stoops. As the second top-200 commit in the 2025 class, Carter’s decision solidifies Kentucky’s position as a rising force in college football recruiting.
For Carter, Kentucky represents an opportunity to showcase his talents on one of the sport’s biggest stages, develop under a coaching staff that believes in him, and help lead the Wildcats to new heights.
“Choosing Kentucky was about more than just football,” Carter said. “It’s about being part of something special and making history.”
With Carter now in the fold, the Wildcats’ future looks brighter than ever.