Jordan Dingle is a vital player that was originally part of Kentucky football’s future of its offensive system.

After three seasons with the Wildcats, however, Dingle decided to enter the transfer portal on Dec. 7.

But, the sophomore tight end had a change of heart and announced this past Saturday that he’s returning to Kentucky.

“I think it was very important. Jordan is definitely a guy we want in the program,” Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said at the Wildcats’ National Signing Day press conference on Wednesday.

Dingle is coming off 2023 campaign where he caught 11 passes for 198 yards. He averaged 18 yards-per-reception.

Stoops noted that Dingle is a “young man that does everything right.”

“He’s darn near perfect with his grades, just a great teammate and loves it here,” Stoops said.

Stoops noted that he was aware right away that Dingle. The Kentucky coach almost choked up, noting the joy he felt that the sophomore decided to come back.

“This is an exciting day,” Stoops said. “There’s a lot of money involved.”

The Wildcats went 7-5 during the regular season, qualifying for a bowl game in the process. Kentucky had a 5-0 start to the season that led to a 2-5 mark down the stretch.

Kentucky is scheduled to face No. 22 Clemson (8-4) in the Gator Bowl on Dec. 29 at noon on ESPN.