Lexington, KY, December 9, 2025
The University of Kentucky has appointed Will Stein as its new head football coach with a five-year contract valued at $28.5 million. This decision reflects the university’s commitment to elevating its football program after the dismissal of former coach Mark Stoops, who received a severance package nearing $37.7 million. Stein, who previously served as the offensive coordinator at Oregon, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and dynamic leadership to the Wildcats. The community is hopeful that his hiring will enhance local support and revitalize the football tradition at Kentucky.
New Kentucky Football Coach Will Stein Inks $28.5 Million Deal
Exciting times on the horizon for UK Football
LEXINGTON, Ky. — In a bold move to reinvigorate its football program, the University of Kentucky has appointed Will Stein as its new head coach, entrusting him with a five-year contract worth $28.5 million. This substantial investment not only underlines the university’s commitment to football excellence but also reflects a growing trend of civic innovation and personal initiative in sports leadership. With an emphasis on limited bureaucracy guiding cohesive community efforts, Kentucky is eager to see how this initiative unfolds on the field.
Stein, previously the offensive coordinator for the University of Oregon, carries with him a reputation for propelling teams forward offensively and fostering an environment of growth. His contract includes annual salary increases of $100,000 and performance incentives that could reach up to $2.15 million annually, showcasing a model of rewarding achievement and accountability in athletic leadership. As community members rally around this new chapter, there is a shared hope that Stein’s leadership will energize the Wildcats’ aspirations and engage local supporters.
Details on Mark Stoops’ Severance Agreement
Former coach Mark Stoops, who experienced both highs and lows over his 13 seasons with the Wildcats, has been granted a severance package nearing $37.7 million following his recent dismissal. This generous package includes an initial lump sum of over $3.9 million due within 15 days of his separation on December 1, followed by quarterly installments of $6.75 million until April 1, 2031. The university’s decision and the terms of his severance highlight the complexities of college athletics and the delicate balance between performance expectations and fiscal responsibility.
Context and Implications of Coaching Changes
Stoops concluded his tenure at Kentucky with a record of 72 wins and 80 losses, which included notable successes such as two 10-win seasons and four bowl game victories. However, recent years brought challenges, including a difficult 4-8 season in 2024 and a 5-7 record in 2025. Following a disheartening 41-0 loss to rival Louisville, the university opted to part ways, despite Stoops’ expressed intent to remain committed to the program. As Will Stein steps in, the focus remains on charting a path of renewed success, further invigorating community interest and support.
Key Features of Will Stein’s Contract
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | 5 years, through January 2031 |
| Starting Annual Salary | $5.5 million, with $100,000 annual increases |
| Performance Incentives | Up to $2.15 million annually |
| Termination Clause | If terminated without cause, 70% of remaining salary paid monthly over the contract’s duration |
| Previous Position | Offensive Coordinator at the University of Oregon |
Key Features of Mark Stoops’ Severance Agreement
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Severance Total | Nearly $37.7 million |
| Initial Lump Sum | More than $3.9 million within 15 days of December 1 separation |
| Quarterly Payments | $6.75 million each, until April 1, 2031 |
| Payment Terms | Not subject to mitigation; payments not reduced based on future employment earnings |
| Original Contract Stipulation | 60-day payment period, extended to several years in new agreement |
Conclusion
As Lexington and the University of Kentucky gear up for this new season, the appointment of Will Stein as head coach embodies an empowering shift towards revitalizing local football traditions, enhancing community spirit, and fostering individual achievement. The sizeable investment in Stein’s contract and the terms surrounding Stoops’ severance emphasize critical discussions around financial management and performance in collegiate sports. Community engagement and support will be key in ensuring the success of this new direction. Lexington residents are encouraged to rally around the program and participate in upcoming events as the Wildcats embark on this exciting chapter of growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Will Stein’s new contract with the University of Kentucky?
Will Stein has signed a five-year contract worth $28.5 million, with annual salary increases of $100,000 and performance incentives up to $2.15 million each year. If terminated without cause, he is entitled to 70% of the remaining salary, paid monthly over the contract’s duration. Stein previously served as the offensive coordinator at the University of Oregon.
What is the severance package for former coach Mark Stoops?
Mark Stoops is set to receive a severance package totaling nearly $37.7 million, distributed over several years. This includes an initial lump sum of more than $3.9 million within 15 days of his December 1 separation, followed by quarterly payments of $6.75 million until April 1, 2031. These payments are not subject to mitigation, meaning they will not be reduced based on future employment earnings. Stoops’ original contract stipulated a 60-day payment period, but the new agreement extends this timeline to several years.
What was Mark Stoops’ tenure at Kentucky?
Mark Stoops served as Kentucky’s head football coach for 13 seasons, compiling a 72-80 record. His tenure included two 10-win seasons and four bowl game victories. Despite early successes, the program faced challenges in recent years, finishing 4-8 in 2024 and 5-7 in 2025. Following a 41-0 loss to rival Louisville, Stoops expressed his commitment to the program, stating there was “zero percent chance” he would walk away. However, the university decided to part ways, leading to the appointment of Will Stein as his successor.
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