Availability Report: Kentucky defensive back DJ Waller Jr. is listed as doubtful for this weekend’s game, while South Carolina faces deeper concerns. The Gamecocks could be without as many as five starters when they take the field on Saturday.

SEC football fans now have a clearer picture of roster statuses heading into Saturdays thanks to a policy introduced in 2024. The league now requires schools to release official availability reports each game week.

These reports are first submitted on Wednesdays for SEC matchups, then updated nightly to reflect any changes. The final version is delivered just one hour before kickoff, giving the most accurate snapshot of who will suit up.

Under the policy, players must be designated in one of four categories: out (0% chance to play), doubtful (25% chance), questionable (50% chance), or probable (75% chance). This standardized system brings more transparency across the conference.

Kentucky enters its second SEC matchup in relatively good shape, though a few players remain sidelined. The Wildcats’ availability report lists several contributors as out, while a handful are questionable for Saturday’s game.

Out: DL Nic Smith, WR David Washington Jr., WR Preston Bowman, RB Jamarion Wilcox, TE Elijah Brown

Doubtful: CB DJ Waller Jr.

Questionable: QB Zach Calzada, OL Aba Selm

Waller Jr. is expected to miss his third straight contest, continuing a frustrating stretch after injuries also cost him five games in his debut season at Kentucky. Still, the Wildcats get some key reinforcements: cornerback Terhyon Nichols will return to the starting lineup, while WR Troy Stellato and DT Josaih Hayes are also cleared after missing last week. Calzada’s shoulder issue leaves his status uncertain as a backup option under center.

South Carolina faces significant depth concerns heading into Saturday, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines. Several key contributors are banged up, and the Gamecocks could be without multiple starters when they meet Kentucky.

Doubtful: OL Cason Henry, DL Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy, DB Buddy Mack III, OL Nolan Hay

Questionable: DB Judge Collier

Probable: DB DQ Smith

Henry, one of South Carolina’s most reliable offensive linemen, is in danger of missing his second straight SEC matchup. Brownlow-Dindy’s absence at defensive tackle would also sting, as the Texas A&M transfer has been a steady force up front. Hay, who started at center last week, is also doubtful, leaving more questions in the trenches. On defense, Collier remains uncertain after being sidelined since Week 1, while safety DQ Smith is trending toward a return after missing last week. In total, the Gamecocks could be down three defensive starters for the pivotal clash.