Will Stein, Barnhart, Capiluto react to new era of Kentucky football

Kentucky football did not wait for the dust to settle. Less than 24 hours after Mark Stoops agreed to a buyout, the Wildcats officially turned the page and named Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein as the program’s next head coach.

It is a seismic moment for the program. The move signals a philosophical reset and a bet on one of the fastest-rising offensive minds in college football. As the news broke, university president Eli Capiluto, athletic director Mitch Barnhart, and Stein himself all weighed in on the new era taking shape in Lexington.

Mitch Barnhart on the hiring of Will Stein

Barnhart led the search quietly but decisively. He praised Stein’s résumé and the offensive pedigree he is bringing with him to the SEC.

"Will Stein brings an outstanding track record of developing elite quarterbacks and leading some of the most dynamic and successful offenses in college football," Barnhart said.

That aligns with what Kentucky has been missing. Stein’s offenses have consistently ranked among the nation’s most explosive. His work with quarterbacks, particularly his development of Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel into Heisman finalists, has made him one of the most coveted young coaches in football. Barnhart has long preferred coaches with coordinator backgrounds and upward trajectories, and Stein fits that prototype perfectly.

President Eli Capiluto on Stein returning home

Capiluto leaned heavily into the Kentucky-native storyline. Stein was born in Louisville and has deep family ties in the state. For Capiluto, it was not just Stein’s résumé, but his connection to home that stood out.

"Will Stein brings two invaluable qualities to the table as the next head coach of the UK football program," Capiluto said. "He is an outstanding developer and coach of young talent... And he has an abiding passion for this place. It runs deep with him and his family."

Capiluto also emphasized that Stein understands the Big Blue Nation, the university, and the broader significance of Kentucky football to the Commonwealth.

"We are looking forward to welcoming Will and his family back home and we can’t wait to support them as they further elevate our program in a way that makes Kentucky proud."

Will Stein’s first words as Kentucky’s new head coach

Stein has not yet held a full press availability, but early indications are that he is embracing the opportunity head-on. His message so far has centered around player development, building an elite offense in the SEC, and restoring momentum and energy into the program.

The 34-year-old represents a dramatic shift from Stoops’ defense-first identity. Kentucky is betting on innovation, tempo, quarterback play, and a fresh voice on the recruiting trail.

"I’m honored and excited to become the next head coach at Kentucky," Stein said. "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."

His goal is to lead with purpose and help young men grow on and off the field. Stein expressed he is deeply thankful to President Capilouto, Mitch Barnhart, and Big Blue Nation for the trust they have placed in him.

"I also want to thank Coach Dan Lanning and the entire Oregon staff for their support and mentorship, they’ve been incredible," Stein added. "Now, I can’t wait to get started and make Kentucky proud."

Contract details and next steps

The deal is reportedly for five years, with official contract numbers expected tomorrow. Stein’s staff building begins immediately, which is no small task given Kentucky’s large number of impending assistant openings.

Recruiting the current roster, stabilizing the 2026 class, and constructing an SEC-ready staff will shape his first days in the chair. One thing is clear. Kentucky wanted a new direction, and they moved aggressively to secure it. Will Stein is now the face of that future.

Stay tuned as this is only the beginning of what is likely to be a whirlwind week in Lexington.