Edge Rusher J.R. Hardrick Sets Official Visit with Louisville
Class of 2026 edge rusher J.R. Hardrick is set to make a return trip to the University of Louisville. The South Pittsburg, Tennessee native has scheduled an official visit for the weekend of May 30, just over two months after making an unofficial stop in March. Hardrick, a three-star prospect, continues to draw attention from several programs, but Louisville remains firmly in the mix.
The 6-foot-6, 225-pound defender initially visited Louisville on March 26 and came away impressed by the program and its staff. After that trip, Hardrick told Cardinal Authority he planned to return — and now, he’s following through. His official visit will give him a deeper look into the Cardinals’ football culture, academic support, and future opportunities within the program.
Hardrick is now the third prospect confirmed to visit Louisville that same weekend. He’ll join Florida athlete Devonte Anderson and current Cardinals commit Karsten Busch. Hosting multiple talented players at once is a common strategy used by coaching staffs to build relationships between potential future teammates and to create a more impactful visit experience.
During his unofficial visit, Hardrick highlighted the personal connections he made with the Louisville coaches and staff. Those relationships appear to be playing a major role in his continued interest in the program. The visit later this spring will give him the chance to further strengthen those bonds and evaluate whether Louisville is the right fit for his collegiate future.
Hardrick has not yet announced a decision timeline, but official visits often help narrow things down. With his size, athleticism, and upside, he’s considered one of the more intriguing edge prospects in Tennessee’s 2026 class. Louisville will now have the opportunity to make a lasting impression as the recruiting process moves into the summer months.
