The Kentucky Wildcats football program has made a major addition to their offensive line with the arrival of Shiyazh Pete, a standout left tackle transferring from New Mexico State. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-8 and weighing 320 pounds, Pete brings both strength and skill to the Wildcats — and a powerful message of representation. As one of the few Native American athletes playing Division I football, Pete hopes to set an example and inspire other Native American players to pursue their dreams on the biggest stages.
Pete’s football journey has been remarkable. During his time at New Mexico State, he established himself as a force on the offensive line, starting 31 of 33 games at left tackle. His consistent performances helped the Aggies achieve a 10-win season in 2023, and his individual contributions were recognized when he earned First-Team All-Conference UCA honors.
Despite facing an injury early in the 2024 season, Pete’s resilience and work ethic shone through. He returned for the final six games of the season, allowing only five pressures and committing no penalties — an impressive feat for any lineman. His overall performance earned him a solid Pro Football Focus grade of 70.9, with just one sack allowed in a matchup against Texas A&M. These stats reflect not just his physical dominance, but his discipline and technical skill on the field.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Pete’s cultural heritage brings added significance to his journey. As a Native American athlete, Pete recognizes the importance of representation in collegiate sports. While his specific tribal affiliation has not been widely publicized, his presence in Division I football carries historical weight and contemporary inspiration.
Native American athletes have played an important role in American football history, though their representation remains limited. Icons like Joe Guyon, a College and Pro Football Hall of Famer of Chippewa descent, paved the way by showcasing extraordinary talent in the early days of the sport. Guyon played for the legendary Pop Warner at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School and later under John Heisman at Georgia Tech before going on to win an NFL Championship with the New York Giants in 1927.
Following in the footsteps of trailblazers like Guyon, Pete hopes to inspire the next generation of Native American athletes. His dedication to both his sport and his cultural identity makes him a role model for young players aspiring to break into elite levels of competition.
Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops and his staff are thrilled to welcome Pete to the Wildcats’ roster. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as the team looks to strengthen its offensive line and compete in the challenging SEC landscape. Pete’s size, technique, and proven ability to protect the quarterback make him a vital asset heading into the season.
As Pete takes on this new chapter with Kentucky, his impact is expected to go far beyond the football field. By embracing his heritage and excelling at the highest collegiate level, Shiyazh Pete is not only bolstering the Wildcats’ lineup — he’s making history and paving the way for future Native American athletes in the sport.
