Mark Stoops shares incredible story of John Schlarman’s impact on Alabama first-round pick Jedrick Wills
By Keith Farner
Published:
The passing of Kentucky offensive line coach John Schlarman has been a tremendous loss across the SEC. The school announced his passing on Thursday morning after Schlarman battled through cholangiocarcinoma for the last two years, coaching through some intense treatments, and being away from the team at times this season.
At a Thursday press conference, coach Mark Stoops shared stories of Schlarman’s impact, including from former Alabama star offensive lineman Jedrick Wills, a one-time UK recruit.
Stoops revealed in the midst of a wide variety of outpouring of support for Schlarman that former recruit and first round pick Jedrick Wills reached out. “That kinda sums up who John is.”
Stoops shared that the former Lexington Lafayette High standout ultimately signed with Alabama and is now with the Cleveland Browns. Being an in-state recruit in Lexington meant he was naturally a notable recruit on UK’s radar, not to mention a 5-star. Stoops added that’s an indication of the impact Schlarman had on kids, even some who went away.
Kentucky was believed to be a finalist for Wills before he chose Alabama.
Schlarman was one of the original members of Stoops’ coaching staff. He last coached in a win over Tennessee earlier this year, after which Stoops presented him with the game ball.
H/T Nick Roush and Jeff Drummond.
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
