Unexpected Destinations: Surprising New Roles for Former Kentucky Football Assistants Revealed!

LEXINGTON — The curtain fell on Mark Stoops’ remarkable 13-year run as the helm of Kentucky football on December 1, marking not just the end of an era for the Wildcats, but also casting a shadow of uncertainty over his coaching crew. Yet, as the dust settled, many of Stoops’ former assistants proved nimble, quickly securing fresh opportunities across the college football landscape. Notably, one member of the 2025 staff will remain in Lexington, ready to embrace the new chapter under Will Stein’s direction. Meanwhile, as January 11 ticked by without a word on Stoops’ future plans for 2026, a couple of his right-hand men, including his brother Mike and long-time stalwart Frank Buffano, also remain at a crossroads. Beyond that duo, there’s a fascinating shuffle underway, with ex-UK coaches finding new grids to ply their trade and roles that promise to redefine their careers. Intrigued? Dive into the full rundown of where these Wildcats are headed and what lies ahead for them next. LEARN MORE

LEXINGTON — When Mark Stoops‘ 13-year tenure as Kentucky football coach came to a close with his dismissal Dec. 1, it wasn’t only the end for him. It also plunged his now-former assistants into an uncertain future.

But many of those ex-UK staffers quickly landed on their feet, taking new jobs elsewhere. One member of Stoops’ 2025 staff will remain with the Wildcats to coach under the new regime of Will Stein.

As of Jan. 11, Stoops hadn’t announced whether he plans to coach in 2026.

The same goes for two of his ex-assistants.

One is Stoops’ older brother, Mike Stoops, who spent four seasons (2022-25) as the team’s inside linebackers coach. The other is Frank Buffano, who was part of the program every season of the Stoops era; he first was the director of football operations (2013-19) before taking over as safeties coach in 2020. Buffano remained in that role through the 2025 campaign.

That pair aside, here’s a look at where the Wildcats‘ other former assistants are headed, as well as their roles in their new digs:

Kentucky football staff 2025

Bush Hamdan

Role at Kentucky: Offensive coordinator

New school/role: Mississippi State, associate head coach for offense

What Hamdan said: “My family and I are thrilled to be joining Mississippi State. This is a place that values hard work, toughness and people, and I’m excited to build strong relationships with our players. I believe deeply in coach (Jeff) Lebby’s offensive philosophy and the direction he’s set for this program, and I’m ready to contribute to that.”

What Mississippi State coach Jeff Lebby said: “We’re excited to welcome Bush and his family to Mississippi State. He is a veteran coach and elite offensive mind with nearly two decades of experience across the SEC, Power 4 and the NFL. He’s proven he can teach, connect and help players improve at every level. He has worked with quarterbacks and wideouts in some of the best leagues in football, and that experience will be a real strength for us offensively. He will be a great resource for our staff and our players.”

Brad White

Role at Kentucky: Defensive coordinator

New school/role: Florida defensive coordinator

What White said: “Extremely thankful to coach (Jon) Sumrall for this exciting opportunity. I’m ready to hit the ground running on helping construct a defense that will make Gator Nation proud. Coach has already stated the vision — be the most feared defense in college football. Now comes the hard work necessary to make that vision a reality. And while scheme has its importance, the most critical focus we’ll have as a defensive staff will be to develop the highly-talented playmakers we recruit and demand that they play with a pace and violence second to none.”

What Florida coach Jon Sumrall said: “Brad is one of the best defensive minds in football and I’m thrilled he will be joining us in Gainesville. Brad has led one of the best defenses in the SEC the last seven years and has extensive experience in the NFL as well. His defenses possess the exact characteristics we are going to have here at Florida and I can’t think of a better leader for that unit.”

Jay Boulware

Role at Kentucky: Running backs coach/special teams coordinator

New school/role: West Virginia running backs coach

What West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez said: “Jay Boulware brings years of successful experience as a highly respected coach and recruiter. His knowledge of the Big 12 Conference and ability to recruit high-level players and develop running backs make him a great addition to our program.”

Chris Collins

Role at Kentucky: Co-defensive coordinator/defensive backs coach

New school/role: Florida safeties coach

What Collins said: “I’m blessed and thankful to be a part of the great staff that coach Sumrall has assembled here at Florida.”

What Sumrall said: “Coach Collins brings great experience to our defensive staff, as well as an extensive history working alongside Coach Brad White. Coach Collins will be a great asset for our program with his proven ability to develop and maximize the talent of his players.”

Derek Shay

Role at Kentucky: Tight ends coach

New school/role: Texas A&M tight ends coach

Anwar Stewart

Role at Kentucky: Defensive line coach

Role: Stewart will be back as the Wildcats’ defensive line coach next season.

What Stewart said: “I’m excited for the opportunity to continue building here at Kentucky. This program means a lot to me, and I believe strongly in the vision coach Stein has for where we’re headed. I’m excited to keep developing our defensive line and doing everything I can to help this team compete at the highest level.”

What Kentucky coach Will Stein said: “Retaining Anwar Stewart as our defensive line coach was one of my main priorities when I took the job. His reputation as one of the top defensive line coaches in the country speaks for itself. He’s an excellent coach and developer of young men, and I’m excited he’s going to continue helping our players reach their full potential.”