Wide receiver La’Rod King was named preseason second-team All-SEC by league coaches on Thursday. (Chet White, UK Athletics)
Larry Warford could be getting ready to head to his first NFL training camp right now. Instead, the decorated offensive guard is preparing for one last go-round in a Kentucky uniform.Recognizing his next-level talent, Warford was named preseason first-team All-Southeastern Conference by the league’s coaches. The rising senior was a second-team performer each of the past two seasons and an All-Freshman performer following his first season as a Wildcat. In 2011, the Richmond, Ky., native allowed just one sack all season. Warford was one of 71 players named to the Outland Trophy watch list on Thursday. The award annually recognizes the nation’s top interior lineman.In 2012, Warford will be counted on to anchor an offensive line that will feature a blend of experience and youth. Warford will also represent UK at SEC Media Days next week along with fellow senior offensive lineman Matt Smith and senior defensive end Collins Ukwu.Warford was one of two Wildcats honored in the preseason by league coaches, as senior wide receiver La’Rod King was named to the second team. King was UK’s top outside threat a season ago catching 40 passes for 598 yards and seven touchdowns, leading the team in all three categories. For his career, King has 86 catches for 1,218 yards and 13 touchdowns. He already ranks 19th in school history in receiving yardage and can climb the charts in 2012.