Could Will Stein be the answer for Kentucky? What to know about the rising star who emerged as top candidate after Stoops exit
Will Stein emerges as top Kentucky head coach candidate. Image Credit: University of Oregon Athletics
Kentucky Wildcats are searching for a new head football coach, and the name rising fast to the top of their shortlist is Will Stein. At 36, Stein brings a unique mix of youthful energy, offensive innovation, and deep ties to the Bluegrass State. As fans reel from the departure of long-time coach Mark Stoops, Stein’s potential return to familiar ground is sparking serious excitement.
Local Ties Make Will Stein a Fan Favorite
Though Stein currently serves as offensive coordinator at Oregon Ducks, he grew up in Kentucky,giving him instant credibility among Wildcats supporters. His father played quarterback for the Wildcats and both parents attended the school, and Stein himself rooted for Kentucky growing up.
Despite playing his college ball at rival Louisville Cardinals (2008–2012) as a quarterback, Stein’s family history and personal upbringing tie him strongly to Kentucky.
That personal connection, combined with on-field success, makes him a compelling “homecoming” candidate for UK.
Proven Offensive Mind with a Track Record of Success
Stein’s coaching journey reflects rapid ascent and consistent results. After his playing career, he spent time as a graduate assistant and quality control coach at Louisville and Texas. He later coached at Texas high-school powerhouse Lake Travis, led offenses at UTSA Roadrunners, and since 2023 has been Oregon’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
Under his guidance, Oregon’s offense has thrived. As of 2025, the Ducks rank among the country’s most explosive offenses, noted for their high yardage and scoring production.
Coaches and analysts describe Stein as a creative play-caller who emphasizes speed, big plays, and quarterback-friendly schemes. That modern approach could inject new energy into Kentucky’s offense, a key need after recent disappointing seasons under Stoops.
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Why Kentucky Could Be Motivated to Move Quickly
With Stoops gone and the program entering its first head-coach search in over a decade, time is tight. Early signing period for recruits looms, and the transfer portal opens soon. UK’s administration knows that recruiting momentum could shift quickly, making a swift hire a top priority.
Given Stein’s local roots, modern offensive philosophy, and rising national reputation, many insiders consider him the “easy home run.”
That said, Stein has never served as a head coach, a factor that may give decision-makers pause. Still, some argue that his youth and innovation make him well suited to build a refreshed program.
What Stein’s Potential Hiring Means for Oregon and UK
If Stein departs Oregon to take the UK job (or else interviews), the Ducks offense could face turbulence, especially at quarterback, a situation that could influence future recruits and long-term offensive planning at Eugene.
For Kentucky, hiring Stein would symbolize a clear shift, embracing youthful energy, offensive creativity, and a long-term vision. It could also reenergize the fan base, bring renewed recruiting momentum, and reset expectations for the Wildcats’ football program. As one columnist recently argued: “Kentucky should bring Stein home to lead Wildcats football into the future.”
FAQ
1. Who is Will Stein?
Will Stein is the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach of the Oregon Ducks. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, he played college football as a quarterback at the University of Louisville before transitioning into coaching.
2. Why is Will Stein being considered by Kentucky now?
After the firing of Mark Stoops, Kentucky is searching for a fresh start. Stein’s Kentucky roots, offensive success at Oregon, and youthful energy make him a leading candidate to reinvigorate the program.
3. Has Will Stein ever been a head coach before?
No. While Stein has coached at various levels, from high school to major college programs, he has never held a head coaching position.
4. What makes his offense attractive to Kentucky?
Stein is known for crafting aggressive, high-octane offenses that emphasize speed and quarterback-friendly schemes. His Duck offenses rank among the nation’s best in yards per game.
5. Does Stein have personal ties to Kentucky?
Yes. Though he played at Louisville, Stein grew up in Kentucky, and both of his parents attended the University of Kentucky. His father played at UK, and his family were season-ticket holders, strengthening his connection to the Wildcats.
6. What would hiring Stein signal for Kentucky’s future?
Bringing in Stein would likely mean a shift toward modern, offensive-driven playstyle; renewed recruiting energy; a younger leadership perspective; and a strong message of program rebuild.
7. What are potential concerns about Stein’s candidacy?
The main concerns center on his lack of head-coaching experience and whether he can manage the broader responsibilities, recruiting, program culture, defense, that come with being a head coach.
8. What would Stein’s departure mean for Oregon?
If Stein leaves, Oregon could face disruption on the offensive side, especially in quarterback development and offensive rhythm. It may complicate recruiting and long-term offensive continuity.
9. When could Kentucky decide on their next head coach?
With early recruiting deadlines, transfer portal opening soon, and pressure to stabilize the program, Kentucky is expected to move quickly. An announcement could come in the coming weeks.
10. Will Kentucky fans accept someone who played at Louisville?
Though Stein played at Louisville, his deep personal ties to Kentucky, and his family’s long-standing loyalty to the Wildcats, may soften resistance. Many fans already view him as a homecoming candidate.