Stockpiling talent has always been an uphill battle at Kentucky behind several powers in the SEC’s Eastern Division, but the Wildcats have to like where they’re at in terms of their expected 2016 haul, a class currently ranked in the Top 5 nationally.

Mark Stoops has received verbal commitments from a league-leading 14 players, including a pair of four-star prospects. If Kentucky can add a couple more to the mix almost a year out from National Signing Day, the Wildcats will secure their best haul in program history.

*Note: Individual star ratings are determined based on 247Sports’ composite score.

RELATED: Impact SEC targets in 2016

Rashaun Smith, DE, Bradenton, Fla. (four-star) — One of many expected FBS-level signees at football powerhouse IMG Academy in the Sunshine State, Smith is the prototypical pass-rushing hybrid many teams utilize at the outside linebacker spot to combat speed-driven offenses. Listed as a strongside defensive end, Smith could flourish with his hand in the dirt or roaming at the second level for Wildcats in 2016 as a play-early option. He could move to five-star status with a solid showing at Nike’s ‘The Opening’ national camp this summer in Oregon. Florida, Clemson and Ohio State are hot on his trail as well.

Prince Sammons, DE, Cincinnati, Ohio (four-star) — This 6-foot-8, 280-pound basketball standout turned edge monster has one of the nation’s best frames and is considered an Ohio State lean. Kentucky is one of eight SEC programs to offer Sammons. Most expect a serious recruiting war between the Buckeyes and Jim Harbaugh at Michigan before the elite defensive end decides. The Wildcats will stay in contact after receiving an unofficial visit from the Ohio native in December.

John Broussard, CB, Phenix City, Ala. (four-star) — Reliable cover corners are becoming scarce in college football, but the Wildcats feel Broussard is a player who could step in with an immediate impact at the back end. The secondary has been a lingering issue for the Wildcats for several years, but their taking the necessary steps to fix the problem with three cornerbacks already committed. Auburn and LSU are reportedly leading the sweepstakes for Broussard, but a promise of early playing time gives Kentucky a shot.

Austin Kendall, QB, Waxhaw, N.C. (four-star) — Kendall fits Kentucky’s Air Raid mold as a lanky, strong-armed gunslinger from North Carolina who made waves on March 10 when he decommitted from Butch Jones and Tennessee. Recruited by offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, Kendall put the Wildcats back in the mix after attending Junior Day in February. Auburn has offered as well, but the four-star quarterback won’t likely make his next verbal until August.