Kentucky Eyes Stein and Hartline to Lead Next Era

The 2025 Kentucky football season ended in disappointment, with the Wildcats finishing 5-7 and parting ways with head coach Mark Stoops after 13 seasons. The program decided it was time for a fresh start as it seeks to return to competitiveness in the SEC.

Kentucky is an attractive job in the conference, offering a strong platform for ambitious coaches, particularly those with proven experience in high-profile programs. With the coaching carousel in full swing, the Wildcats have a wealth of options.

According to On3 reporter Pete Nakos, two of the most sought-after assistant coaches in college football—Oregon’s Will Stein and Ohio State’s Brian Hartline—are the top candidates for Kentucky’s next head coach. Both are highly respected for their track records and leadership potential.

Nakos highlighted the pair on X, noting that Stein and Hartline are the “top two names to know for Kentucky,” underscoring their prominence in this year’s coaching search. Their skill sets and reputations make them logical choices to lead Kentucky into a new era.

1. Will Stein’s Kentucky Connection

Will Stein has strong personal ties to Kentucky, which could make him a particularly compelling candidate. Stein hails from Louisville, his father played defensive end for the Wildcats, and his family has deep connections to the program, including his mother, who graduated from Kentucky, and his brother, a former player. Despite growing up a Louisville fan, Stein says he was immersed in SEC football from a young age and attended countless games at Commonwealth Stadium. This connection gives him both credibility and an emotional link to the program. Professionally, Stein is recognized as an accomplished offensive coordinator capable of jumpstarting a team’s scoring production. Kentucky, which struggled offensively in 2025, could benefit immediately from his expertise in game planning and quarterback development. Although Stein has been considered for other openings, such as UCLA, his Kentucky roots make Lexington a natural fit. Hiring him would combine familiarity with the program and the potential for a strong offensive transformation.

2. Brian Hartline’s Recruiting Prowess

Brian Hartline presents a different profile for Kentucky. Unlike Stein, he does not have deep personal ties to the Wildcats, though his brother did serve in a support role under Mark Stoops. Despite that, Hartline has built a national reputation as one of college football’s premier recruiters. Hartline’s ability to attract top talent and build relationships with elite prospects makes him highly valuable in the SEC, where recruiting often determines success. Kentucky could leverage his connections to bring in players who can compete at a high level. Beyond recruiting, Hartline is seen as ready for a head coaching role, with many viewing him as a rising star in the profession. Whether or not he lands the Kentucky job, it is widely believed he will be a head coach in the near future. While his lack of Kentucky roots may be a consideration, his proven ability to develop talent and energize a program makes Hartline an enticing candidate to revitalize the Wildcats.

3. Kentucky’s Path Forward

The Wildcats are entering a pivotal offseason, with the right hire potentially reshaping the trajectory of the program. Whether Kentucky selects Stein, Hartline, or another candidate, the next head coach will inherit both a struggling offense and a talented roster in need of leadership. Stein offers familiarity, offensive acumen, and a deep connection to the fan base, which could facilitate a smooth transition. Hartline brings elite recruiting skills and a national profile, which could accelerate Kentucky’s long-term competitiveness in the SEC. The decision will likely hinge on whether the program prioritizes immediate offensive improvement or long-term recruiting strength. Both approaches have merits, and the selection committee must weigh how each candidate aligns with the Wildcats’ vision. Ultimately, Kentucky’s next coach will be tasked with restoring confidence in a program that has seen recent disappointment while positioning the Wildcats to compete at the highest levels in the SEC.