Mark Stoops joins Texas coaching staff: Ex-Kentucky coach will serve as special assistant to Steve Sarkisian
CBS Sports
by
Austin Nivison
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mark Stoops, the long-time coach at Kentucky, has joined the University of Texas football program as a special assistant to head coach Steve Sarkisian. Known for his extensive experience in college football, Stoops brings over three decades of coaching expertise to Austin, including 13 successful seasons at Kentucky where he became the winningest coach in the program’s history. After being let go following the 2025 season, Stoops leaves Kentucky with an 82-80 record and seven winning campaigns, including four bowl victories. His addition marks another move by Sarkisian to surround himself with proven veterans, following similar hires of Paul Chryst and Gary Patterson in previous years.
Stoops’ arrival is particularly significant as Texas aims to return to the College Football Playoff in 2026 under Sarkisian’s leadership. While his role is primarily on the defensive side of the ball, Stoops’ influence could extend beyond that as he works closely with Sarkisian and the staff. This hire bolsters a program looking to build momentum after Arch Manning’s emergence last season, though questions remain about how the offense will develop under new coordinator Mike Sanford.
The move also highlights Sark
Verticals
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/2/2026