In anticipation for a potential full season of SEC contact, Kentucky is attempting to get quarterback Stephen Johnson to put on some quality weight this offseason. During his Tuesday media availability, Johnson discussed his enviable dilemma, he is being asked to eat more and more food.

Listed at 183 pounds, Johnson said not everything is on his menu to get his weight up. Instead, Kentucky is asking the quarterback who finished last season as the team’s starter to eat large quantities of quality food.

“I can’t eat anything and everything but they have me eating a lot of food,” Johnson said. “I have two smoothies and a goody bag to take home right now, so just trying to eat really good food and eat as much as I can.”

Exactly how much is Johnson suppose to be eating these days? 5,000 calories is his daily goal.

“It’s tough hitting it but I just try and do it every day,” Johnson admitted.  “I’ve put on a few pounds so far… I’m close to my goal that I want right now. If I can get to 195, that’d be good. 200 would be even better, but 195 is my goal. (Eating) four meals a day and four snacks, it amounts to a lot.”

Forced into the starting role following the injury to Drew Barker, Johnson played well for the Wildcats last season after transferring in from junior college. When Kentucky needed him the most, Johnson had his best performance of the season against Louisville. On the road against UK’s in-state rival, Johnson threw for 338 yards and three touchdowns and added 83 yards on the ground in the 41-38 win over the Cardinals.

If Johnson continues to progress on the field and manages to add weight to his frame heading into fall camp, it’s tough to see Barker beating him out barring a huge progression in his own game by the time the season rolls around. As odd as it may sound, Johnson’s ability to gain weight could go far in determining his status with the Wildcats entering his final season in Lexington.

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