Kentucky reportedly makes final decision on Mark Stoops’ future
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Kentucky is expected to fire head coach Mark Stoops on Monday, according to a report.
That’s per ESPN’s Pete Thamel, who reported the news late Sunday night. According to Thamel, the process is expected to “formally” play out on Monday.
Pressure on Stoops has mounted over the past couple of weeks after a poor close to the season. The Wildcats lost to Vanderbilt and Louisville in blowout fashion to end the 2025 campaign, causing the program to miss the postseason once again.
However, it was believed that Stoops’ significant buyout would results in him getting another season in 2026. Per Thamel, Stoops is owed more than $37 million according to his contract. According to On3’s Chris Low, Stoops and Kentucky have come to an agreement to allow for that money to be paid out over a number of years.
Stoops is arguably the most successful coach in Kentucky football history, but results have waned in recent years. The Wildcats have a total of 9 SEC wins over the last 4 seasons. They went 2-6 in conference play this year.
Kentucky will presumably commence a national search to replace Stoops in the coming days. The Early Signing Period for high school recruits is set to begin on Wednesday.
Stoops departs Kentucky with a career record of 82-80 after 13 seasons in charge.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
