Lexington, Kentucky, December 3, 2025
The University of Kentucky has appointed Will Stein as the new head coach for the Wildcats football team. Stein, a Louisville native and former offensive coordinator at the University of Oregon, takes over following Mark Stoops’ departure after a successful 13-season tenure. With an impressive coaching background and deep ties to the state, Stein aims to bring a new offensive direction to the program while continuing his role at Oregon during the College Football Playoff.
Lexington, Kentucky – Will Stein Appointed as New Head Coach of Kentucky Football
LEXINGTON, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky has officially named Will Stein, former offensive coordinator at the University of Oregon, as the new head coach of the Wildcats football program. This announcement follows the recent departure of Mark Stoops, who served as head coach for 13 seasons.
Stein’s Background and Coaching Career
Will Stein, a native of Louisville, Kentucky, has a strong connection to the state. He played quarterback at Trinity High School, leading the team to multiple state championships, and later at the University of Louisville from 2008 to 2012. Following his playing career, Stein transitioned into coaching, starting as a graduate assistant at Louisville in 2013. He then moved to the University of Texas as a quality control assistant in 2014. In 2018, Stein became the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas. His collegiate coaching career continued at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he served as passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach from 2020 to 2021, and later as co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2022. In 2023, Stein joined the University of Oregon as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, a position he held until his appointment at Kentucky. Under his leadership, Oregon’s offense ranked among the top in the nation, including a No. 2 ranking in both scoring and total offense in 2023.
Stein’s Appointment and Statement
Stein’s hiring was confirmed by Kentucky’s Director of Athletics, Mitch Barnhart, who highlighted Stein’s track record in developing elite quarterbacks and leading dynamic offenses. Stein expressed his excitement about returning to his home state, stating that leading the Wildcats is a dream come true. He emphasized his goal to lead with purpose and help young men grow both on and off the field.
Transition and Future Plans
Stein is expected to continue his role as Oregon’s offensive coordinator and playcaller throughout the College Football Playoff, as the Ducks finished the regular season with an 11-1 record and are positioned for a potential playoff berth. This arrangement allows Stein to honor his commitments to Oregon while preparing for his new role at Kentucky.
Background on Mark Stoops’ Departure
Mark Stoops, the previous head coach, was dismissed after leading the Wildcats for 13 seasons. Under Stoops’ leadership, Kentucky achieved significant milestones, including multiple bowl game appearances and a strong presence in the Southeastern Conference. However, the decision to part ways was made following the conclusion of the recent season.
Looking Ahead
As Stein prepares to take the helm, Kentucky fans are eager to see how his offensive expertise and deep-rooted connection to the state will influence the future of the Wildcats football program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Will Stein?
Will Stein is a football coach and former quarterback from Louisville, Kentucky. He has served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Oregon and has a background in coaching at various collegiate and high school levels.
What is Will Stein’s coaching experience?
Stein has coached at the University of Louisville, University of Texas, Lake Travis High School in Texas, and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). He joined the University of Oregon in 2023 as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
What was Mark Stoops’ tenure at Kentucky?
Mark Stoops served as the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats football team for 13 seasons, achieving multiple bowl game appearances and significant milestones within the Southeastern Conference.
Will Will Stein continue coaching at Oregon?
Yes, Stein is expected to remain in his role as Oregon’s offensive coordinator and playcaller throughout the College Football Playoff, as the Ducks finished the regular season with an 11-1 record and are positioned for a potential playoff berth.
What are the expectations for Will Stein at Kentucky?
Fans and the athletic department anticipate that Stein’s offensive expertise and deep-rooted connection to Kentucky will positively influence the Wildcats football program’s future performance.
Key Features of Will Stein’s Appointment as Kentucky Football Head Coach
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous Position | Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach at the University of Oregon |
| Coaching Experience | University of Louisville, University of Texas, Lake Travis High School, UTSA, University of Oregon |
| Connection to Kentucky | Born in Louisville, played quarterback at Trinity High School and University of Louisville |
| Oregon’s Offensive Performance Under Stein | Ranked No. 2 in both scoring and total offense in 2023 |
| Stein’s Statement | Expressed excitement about leading the Wildcats and emphasized his goal to help young men grow on and off the field |
| Transition Plan | Expected to continue coaching at Oregon during the College Football Playoff before fully transitioning to Kentucky |
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