Will Stein spoke at length today about a lot of topics, but something that should catch your eye is how he talked about roster building and what that process looks like right now.
For Stein, it isn't just about the talent being brought in; it is about the talent being brought back. And more importantly, it is about character.
"Yeah, I mean the first thing that we did was to look at this current roster and who we really needed to dive in to make sure stayed on this roster in the '26 season, and you know, feel really good about the returners coming back.
"But you're right, it is a bunch of film study. It's doing our research. It's seeing what type of person they are. Do they fit the character that we want on our team? And then, schematically, are they what we look for in each position? So while I was at Oregon, I was watching tape on our current team."
Kentucky has the 'best GM in the country'
Stein was quick to deflect credit for the roster construction to his front office, specifically highlighting the work of Kentucky's General Manager.
"[I] also have, you know, Pat Biondo, I think, is the best GM in the country who's done a phenomenal job since arriving here in Lexington. And then added Pete Nochta from Louisville as our assistant GM. And those guys have really spearheaded building this roster along with me, and like where we stand right now."
Wildcats need to be able to count on each other to 'do their job'
When you have a football team, you have a group of guys that have to sacrifice for each other.
- Defensive linemen have to be unselfish enough to eat blocks so linebackers can make the play.
- Linebackers have to stick to the scheme instead of trying to freelance for a highlight reel moment.
- Receivers have to run routes with conviction, even when they know the ball is going to the other side.
Nothing works if you have guys who are only out for themselves. According to Will Stein, Kentucky is not the place for that kind of mentality. He wants players who can be trusted when the game is on the line.
"And in the fourth quarter, when it's the hardest, can you look to the man to your left and the right and know that they're going to do their job?"
Kentucky will need to be heavily bought into the system and bought into what Will Stein is selling to make noise in 2026 and beyond.