New details have emerged regarding former Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops’ separation from the university, outlining how the school will handle one of the largest buyouts in program history.
Kentucky announced Stoops’ firing on Dec. 1, ending a 13-year run that produced unprecedented stability but closed with two straight losing seasons. According to contractual terms amended in 2017, UK would have owed Stoops 75% of his remaining salary within 60 days—approximately $37.69 million as of Dec. 1, 2025,
the fifth-largest buyout figure in the SEC.
Instead, both sides agreed to a restructured payout plan. Stoops will receive $3,937,500 within 15 days of his dismissal, with the final deadline set for Dec. 16. The remaining balance will be paid out quarterly over the next five-plus years, totaling $6.75 million annually through April 1, 2031. Importantly, Stoops’ payments will not be reduced by future earnings, meaning any coaching job he accepts will not offset Kentucky’s financial obligation.
The separation agreement also includes mutual non-disparagement clauses and cooperation requirements should litigation or NCAA inquiries arise. In such cases, Kentucky will cover Stoops’ related expenses.
Stoops leaves as the program’s winningest coach, guiding the Wildcats to eight straight bowl games from 2016–23. However, his tenure ended with a 4–8 campaign followed by a 5–7 finish, capped by a 41–0 loss to Louisville, which was the largest margin in rivalry history.
Athletic director Mitch Barnhart and new head coach Will Stein both publicly thanked Stoops for his impact, with Stein noting that “Kentucky football would not be where it is today without him” as he begins his tenure after arriving from Oregon.
