Top Contenders for the Next Kentucky Football Head Coach After Mark Stoops' Departure

After 13 seasons leading the Kentucky Wildcats, Mark Stoops has parted ways with the program following a disappointing 2025 campaign. The team faced blowout losses to rivals, including Vanderbilt and Louisville, leading to speculation about whether this was a mutual decision or a firing.

Stoops leaves behind a mixed record of 82 wins and 80 losses overall. However, if you exclude the 2021 season, which didn’t count due to NCAA rulings, his record drops to 72 wins and 80 losses. During his tenure, Kentucky showed flashes of promise, notably in 2018 with a stellar 10-win season and several bowl appearances. Yet, since 2022, the team’s performance has notably declined.

In 2022, the Wildcats managed a 7-6 record but suffered a historic defeat in the Music City Bowl against Iowa. They repeated the same record in 2023, losing to Clemson in the Gator Bowl. The 2024 season saw a significant drop to 4-8, marking the first missed bowl game since 2015. The recent 2025 season ended with a 5-7 record, sealing Stoops’ fate amid lopsided losses.

Now, the focus shifts to finding a new leader to revitalize the program. Here are some top candidates for the job:

Will Stein – Currently the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Oregon, Stein has a knack for developing quarterbacks. In his time at Oregon, he coached standout players like Bo Nix, who became a Heisman finalist. His current QB, Dante Moore, is performing well with impressive stats. Stein’s background in coaching and his experience as a former quarterback make him a solid choice for Kentucky as they look for more explosive offense.
Brian Hartline – As Ohio State’s co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, Hartline has developed numerous top-tier receivers, many of whom became first-round NFL draft picks. He has received national accolades for his work and has family ties to Kentucky, with his brother already on the staff. This connection could facilitate a smooth transition if he takes the role.
Dan Mullen – Mullen brings extensive SEC experience from previous coaching stints at Mississippi State and Florida. Known for his innovative offensive strategies, he could inject new life into Kentucky’s recruiting efforts, although his previous performance at Florida raises some concerns.
Brian Kelly – Formerly the head coach at Notre Dame and LSU, Kelly has a wealth of experience at high levels. Despite facing criticism during his time at LSU, his track record speaks for itself. He could bring the stability and national recognition that Kentucky seeks.
Bob Chesney – Currently coaching James Madison, Chesney has a strong record of 20-5 in two seasons. Known for building successful programs from the ground up, he would need to prove he can adapt to the SEC’s demands.

As Kentucky examines its candidates, they’ll look for coaches with SEC experience, strong recruiting networks, and the ability to turn around a struggling program. Stoops’ departure marks the end of an era, and the choice of the next coach will be critical for the Wildcats’ future.

Kentucky fans are eager for change. The next coach will have the task of reversing recent trends and restoring the program’s competitiveness in the SEC. With a mix of experienced veterans and fresh talent in the coaching ranks, the upcoming weeks promise to be an exciting time for Kentucky football.

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