Let's be honest, a significant portion of Big Blue Nation seems ready for the Mark Stoops era to end, including I would bet most of you reading this. And perhaps, deep down, Stoops wouldn't entirely mind a change of scenery either. His recent comments have certainly left fans wondering what he is thinking.
A hefty buyout (around $36 million) would certainly soften the blow, and escaping the constant scrutiny after 13 seasons might offer some relief. Especially considering how bad the team has looked the last 2 years.
While Stoops remains publicly committed, the reality is his tenure feels increasingly tenuous. Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart appears to be giving him every chance, but even a strong finish might only lead to a barely bowl-eligible record, falling short of the $9 million standard. If a separation does happen, where might Stoops end up?
1. Virginia Tech: A cultural fit with fan hesitation?
The Hokies need a new coach after parting ways with Brent Pry. Unconfirmed rumors linked Stoops to the VT Athletic Director recently. Culturally, it could definitely fit. Virginia Tech values defense and stability. However, reports suggest the Hokie fanbase isn't exactly thrilled by the prospect, potentially mirroring the "fan revolt" scenario that scuttled Stoops' hiring with Texas A&M a couple of years ago. Still, it remains a plausible destination for both program and coach.
2. Retirement: Walking away wealthy
Having earned roughly $60 million during his Kentucky tenure, Stoops could simply choose to walk away from the coaching grind. Last season he talked about how unhappy he was dealing with NIL and the changes in college football. He could take his money, spend time with family, and perhaps explore TV or consulting roles. After a draining few seasons, the appeal of stepping back might be strong in the short-term to recalculate before coming back to coach.
3. Defensive coordinator: Returning to his roots
Before becoming a head coach, Stoops was a highly respected defensive mind, notably coordinating Florida State's elite defense before their national title run. He could easily land a high-profile DC job at a major program, offering valuable experience to a younger head coach. Even an analyst role at a powerhouse like Georgia, with his good friend Kirby Smart, isn't out of the question, providing a lower-stress, but lower-paying position.
4. Kentucky: The unthinkable (or inevitable)?
Don't dismiss the possibility, however unlikely it seems right now, that Stoops returns for the 2026 season. If the team shows significant fight down the stretch, or if Barnhart simply digs in his heels against making a costly change, Stoops could survive for one more year. But at this juncture, it feels more like delaying the inevitable than a true fresh start.
Fans are ready, I think deep down Mark is ready, but I am just not sure Mitch Barnhart is ready, and he is the one that matters most.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion