Andy Kotelnicki is making a return to the University of Kansas (KU) as the associate head coach after two years with Penn State, the university announced on Friday morning. Kotelnicki previously served as KU’s offensive coordinator from 2021 to 2023 and held the title of associate head coach starting in December 2022.
During his brief tenure at Penn State, Kotelnicki’s offense reached the College Football Playoff in 2024. However, after a rocky start to the 2025 season, marked by a 3-3 record, head coach James Franklin was dismissed. Despite the challenges, Kotelnicki remained with the Nittany Lions through the season’s conclusion, capping off his time there with an appearance in the Pinstripe Bowl.
KU’s coach, Lance Leipold, had quarterbacks coach Jim Zebrowski calling the plays during the 2023 Guaranteed Rate Bowl victory. However, following a disappointing season, Jeff Grimes, who had been hired as the offensive coordinator for 2024, departed for Wisconsin. Subsequently, Zebrowski was promoted to offensive coordinator for 2025 after demonstrating promise, while Matt Lubick returned as tight ends coach after contributing significantly as an analyst under Kotelnicki.
Now, as Kotelnicki rejoins KU, he brings with him a wealth of experience and familiarity, having previously collaborated with Leipold at Wisconsin-Whitewater, Buffalo, and during his first stint at KU. His insight and expertise will be instrumental as KU looks to enhance its offensive strategy in the upcoming seasons.
This story will continue to evolve as new developments arise.