For Saadiq Clements, the decision to transfer from the University of Louisville wasn’t about leaving something behind. It was about stepping into the spotlight he’s always worked for.
The former Henderson County star, one of Kentucky high school’s most dominant defensive linemen during his senior season in 2022, has announced his transfer to the University of North Texas in the American Athletic Conference.
“Louisville meant a lot. The coaches and people there did a lot for me,” Clements told the Hendersonian Monday morning. “But I’m looking to be that guy.”
That hunger to compete was a factor in Clements’ decision to enter the transfer portal after two seasons with the Cardinals. At Louisville, he spent most of his time developing behind a stacked defensive front, headed by star edge rusher Ashton Gillotte, a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Clements, now at North Texas, has his sights set on immediate impact.
“I’m just working hard enough to get on the field,” Clements said of his summer plans. “Once I get on the field, I can show them what I can do.”
The 6-foot-4, 290-pound defensive lineman became a local legend during his time at Henderson County High School. As a senior, he recorded a KHSAA 6A leading 21 sacks and was named Kentucky’s Defensive Player of the Year by Kentucky Sports Radio. Those accolades, however, are only part of what shaped him.
“Henderson County shaped me,” Clements said.
He credits his time with the Colonels for instilling the confidence and work ethic that propelled him to a Power Five program in Louisville.
“Just to know that I can be a top player. Knowing that I have the ability to be,” he added.
The Mean Green, now part of the American Athletic Conference, offers a promising opportunity for Clements. North Texas has participated in a bowl game four out of the last five years.
In a shifting college football landscape shaped by NIL—Name, Image and Likeness—and the transfer portal, Clements stays focused on performance over perks.
“It doesn’t mean anything to me right now,” he said when asked about NIL. “But NIL definitely changed things. Who’s going to pay a player and not play them?” As the 2025 college football season approaches, Clements is preparing for a fresh start at North Texas. He will go into summer workouts aiming to earn a role on the Mean Green’s defensive line. At Henderson County, Clements was the most dominant defensive player in recent history. Now, he’s looking to bring that same level of production to the AAC spotlight.
