Former Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops is set to join the University of Texas, taking on the role of special assistant to head coach Steve Sarkisian. This news comes after Stoops concluded a notable 13-season tenure with the Wildcats, where he became the winningest coach in the program’s history. Following his firing on December 1, he was replaced by Will Stein.
Kentucky will be compensating Stoops nearly $38 million, which is to be disbursed in quarterly payments until April 2031. The terms of his separation from the university assure that this payout will not be affected by any future earnings he might receive from Texas. His initial payment of approximately $3.94 million was due within two weeks of his termination.
Mark Stoops’ new position marks his first work with an institution outside Kentucky since he served as the defensive coordinator at Florida State from 2010 to 2012. While the specifics of his salary with Texas remain undisclosed, his track record at Kentucky includes leading the team to eight straight bowl appearances from 2016 to 2023, a remarkable achievement for the program. That streak came to an end last season, which concluded with a disappointing 4-8 record highlighted by a significant loss to rival Louisville.
Athletics director Mitch Barnhart acknowledged Stoops’ valuable contributions to the program, particularly during a successful stretch that saw multiple ten-win seasons. New head coach Will Stein also expressed gratitude towards Stoops during his introductory remarks, thanking him for the foundation he helped establish for Kentucky football.
Despite the difficulties of Stoops’ final season, with a 5-7 record and a substantial defeat against Louisville, he is remembered fondly for his pivotal role in elevating the program. His transition to Texas could bring a new chapter for both Stoops and the Longhorns as they aim for success in upcoming seasons.