From Lipscomb legend to SEC freshman: Kris Thompson’s next chapter at Kentucky.

Erin Reid LEXINGTON, Ky. — From the moment Kris Thompson first laced up cleats for the Una Bears at just five years old, football became more than a game — it became a legacy. Inspired by his father, DeJuan Thompson, Kris began forging his own path under the Friday night lights. Now, as he embarks on his freshman year at the University of Kentucky, that journey takes its biggest step yet.

“My dad got me into it,” Kris says. “He lit that fire in me from day one. I’ve loved the game ever since.”

Photo Credit : Kentucky Football

Growing up in Tennessee, Kris found early inspiration in former NFL superstar Chris Johnson. “Man, CJ2K had that swagger,” he says. “The way he affected the game, his speed, his confidence — I always wanted to play with that kind of energy.”

Though not the biggest linebacker on the field, Kris plays with explosive versatility. Whether it’s rushing the passer, dropping into coverage, or coming downhill for a big hit, he prides himself on his do-it-all toolkit. “I see myself as a versatile player,” he says. “I can do a little bit of everything, and I play fast and physical.”

Thompson’s high school career at powerhouse Lipscomb Academy made national waves. Under head coach Trent Dilfer and defensive coordinator Sione Ta’ufo’ou, Kris elevated his game — in both structure and skill. “Coach Sione helped fix my eyes, really helped me understand the game,” Kris says. “And Coach Dilfer? He ran our program like a college. Coming into Kentucky, I already knew what that level of preparation looked like.”

That preparation led to a standout résumé: two state championships and dominant performances on a national stage, including matchups against Thompson High School, Milton, and a statement game against IMG Academy where Kris racked up three sacks.

Originally leaning toward Alabama, Kris reevaluated his options following Nick Saban’s retirement. That opened the door for Kentucky and head coach Mark Stoops and position coach Mike Stoops.

“Coach Stoops is the real deal,” Kris says. “He’s honest, intense, and cares about us like his own sons. He breaks everything down and pushes us to be our best every day.”

Choosing Kentucky wasn’t just about the football. It was about alignment — in values, development, and belief. “The nutrition program, the culture, the people — everything felt right. I knew I’d grow here as a player and as a person.”

So far, Kris’s transition to fall camp has been smooth. The pace is faster, the stakes are higher, but he feels ready — thanks in part to strong mentorship from veteran linebacker Alex Afari. “He’s helping me adjust,” Kris says. “I’m learning every day, but Lipscomb definitely prepped me for this.”

His goals are personal, purposeful, and powerful. “I want to glorify the name of Jesus in everything I do,” he says. “I want to lead in a way that my teammates can see Christ in me — and I’m chasing that All-SEC Freshman Team. I came here to make an impact.”

Kris Thompson is more than a talented newcomer at Kentucky — he’s a driven, grounded, battle-tested leader with a mission that stretches beyond the game. And the SEC should be ready.