Kentucky announced Friday that linebacker Chris Oats is in the hospital “due to a medical issue” and will soon be moved to a physical rehabilitation center.

UK’s statement, below, did not detail Oats’ medical issue other than saying it is not related to COVID-19, honoring the family’s request for privacy:

Chris Oats is in the hospital due to a medical issue. The family has asked us to confirm that the issue is not related to Covid 19. Chris expected to move to a physical rehabilitation center in the near future. The family requests that their privacy be respected during this time.

Wildcats insider Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio stated KSR “will not go into any further detail, but the issue is very serious.” The KSR report also states Oats is in a hospital in Cincinnati, his home town.

Oats, a Winton Woods product, is listed as a true junior on UKathletics.com. In 2019, his sophomore season, Oats played in 12-of-13 games. He recorded 46 total tackles (fifth on the team) including 2.5 for loss. Two of those TFLs came in the Belk Bowl win over Virginia Tech. During the season, he also broke up a pass and forced a fumble.

SDS joins Big Blue Nation in wishing a speedy recovery for Oats.