Kentucky has appointed Will Stein, previously the offensive coordinator at Oregon, as the university’s new head football coach, effective immediately. This announcement, made on Monday, marks a significant transition for both the program and Stein, who expressed his excitement in a statement. “I’m honored and excited to become the next head coach at Kentucky,” Stein stated. “Growing up in Kentucky and sitting in the stands at UK games as a kid, I could only dream of one day leading the Wildcats. This is truly a dream come true.”
The deal, reportedly a five-year contract, comes after Kentucky parted ways with longtime coach Mark Stoops, following a disappointing season that concluded with a 5-7 record. The Wildcats have struggled offensively, failing to produce a top-50 offense since the 2021 season.
Stein’s Background and Coaching Acumen
At just 36 years old, Stein has quickly risen to prominence as one of the nation’s leading offensive minds. His tenure at Oregon has seen him develop a top-10 scoring offense in two of his three years. Under his guidance, quarterbacks Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel both earned Heisman Trophy finalist honors, showcasing his ability to cultivate talent at the position.
Stein’s coaching journey began at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he served from 2020 to 2022 and was co-offensive coordinator during his final season. His success at Oregon, where he was hired by head coach Dan Lanning in 2022, further cemented his reputation as a dynamic playcaller. Notably, Stein will continue in his role at Oregon for the remainder of the team’s playoff run, with the Ducks finishing their regular season at 11-1 and ranked sixth in the College Football Playoff standings.
Growing up in Kentucky, Stein has deep roots in the community and a personal connection to the Wildcats. He played quarterback at the University of Louisville from 2009 to 2012, appearing in 25 games. Both of his parents are Kentucky alumni, and attending Wildcats games as a child has fueled his passion for the program.
Future Prospects for Kentucky Football
Stein’s hiring signals a strategic move by Kentucky to revitalize its offense, which has struggled significantly in recent years. With an average of 341 yards per game in 2025, the Wildcats ranked 105th in total offense, underscoring the need for a fresh approach. A key aspect of Stein’s vision is his connection with promising redshirt freshman quarterback Cutter Boley, a local talent who has already made an impact with 15 touchdown passes as a true freshman.
Stein’s offensive philosophy emphasizes versatility and freedom for quarterbacks, as he shared in a previous interview: “It’s hard to put a label on what we do because we kind of do it all.” This adaptable approach aligns with the evolving landscape of college football, where innovation and flexibility are increasingly valued.
As Kentucky transitions to this new leadership, Stein’s familiarity with the program and his successful track record offer hope for a turnaround. The Wildcats’ commitment to investing in their football future is evident in this strategic hire, aiming to restore the program to competitive standing in the SEC and beyond.
