A one-time second-string outside linebacker at Minnesota could be the key to a revamped Kentucky defense that returns just one of the 17 sacks it recorded last season.

De’Niro Laster, who transferred to be closer to his native Ohio because of a difficult family situation, the Star-Tribune reported, was described this spring as the most physical outside linebacker the Wildcats have. In 2014, Laster was an academic all-Big Ten selection and had seven tackles in nine games.

“He brings it every time,” said Denzil Ware, the only returning player who recorded a sack last season, the Herald-Leader reported. “He doesn’t take off, even the individuals (drills). That’s just what type of player he is.”

Experience is in short supply at linebacker for Kentucky — five of eight linebackers have not played for the team — but Laster is a junior with experience at the Power Five level.

“I feel like I’m one of the best pass rushers on our team and that I can help the young guys improve on their pass rushing,” he told the Herald-Leader.

Held out of action last year because of NCAA hardship transfer rules, Laster is the latest of an influx of Ohio products who have been recruited or transferred to Kentucky. Two of the latest were former Nebraska players Greg Hart and Courtney Love. Laster is also from Cleveland Heights High School, the same school as Kentucky wide receiver Dorian Baker. 

Laster was on the second-team defense in the spring, but the 6-foot-4, 235-pounder has shuttled from inside to outside linebacker. It’s not clear which position Laster will settle on once the season starts.

“He’s versatile,” coach Mark Stoops said of Laster. “We’ve got to find the right spot for him. He could play outside; he could play inside just as well.