The 2025 coaching season in college football proved to be a transformative period, filled with a dynamic mix of promising hires. Established figures like Lane Kiffin and James Franklin were joined by rising stars transitioning from coordinator roles or Group of Five head coaching positions. Among them, three individuals stand poised to become household names in 2026.
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College football enthusiasts may recognize these emerging coaches, but casual fans may find them unfamiliar. This distinction is unlikely to persist as the season progresses.
Will Stein and the Kentucky Wildcats
A Kentucky Wildcats flag flies after a touchdown during a game against Louisville, Nov. 25, 2023. (Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire)
Among the first-time Power Four coaches is Will Stein, who has taken the reins for the Kentucky Wildcats. Despite the presence of promising coordinators from Oregon, Stein’s offensive experience and background as Oregon’s offensive coordinator tipped the scales in his favor. This decision marks Kentucky’s endeavor to rejuvenate their program with fresh ideas.
Kentucky’s previous head coach, Mark Stoops, left a legacy of steady program development. This foundation offers Stein a strong platform from which to innovate, particularly with his offensive tactics aligned with principles from his tenure under Dan Lanning at Oregon. The Wildcats, while not akin to giants like Georgia or Alabama, maintain robust infrastructure that Stein could leverage to garner attention in the SEC.
Bob Chesney Energizes UCLA Bruins
The UCLA flag waves during the Cactus Bowl against Kansas State, Dec. 26, 2017. (Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)
Bob Chesney’s transition to UCLA comes after notable success at James Madison. His leadership vaulted the Dukes to a College Football Playoff position within two seasons after succeeding Curt Cignetti. This pattern of success enhances his appeal as UCLA seeks revitalization after years of mediocrity.
The Bruins, historically proud yet faltering in recent years, exhibit potential for resurgence under Chesney. Recruitment is a pivotal aspect for any new college coach, and Chesney’s recruitment strategies have significantly improved UCLA’s prospects. Despite previous skepticism regarding recruitment rankings, UCLA remains within the top 15, signaling Chesney’s adeptness on the recruiting trail. His track record indicates promising developments for UCLA in the near future.
Eric Morris Commands Oklahoma State
The Oklahoma State Cowboys logo is displayed on the field before a game against the Arizona State Sun Devils, Sept. 9, 2023. (Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)
Eric Morris emerges as a favored candidate among first-time Power Four coaches at Oklahoma State. Taking over from Mike Gundy, one of the longest-tenured coaches, Morris inherits a program well-positioned for fresh leadership. His history with the Big 12 and expertise with Air Raid offenses underline Oklahoma State’s strategic pivot.
Morris’s offensive implementation is poised to challenge defenses throughout the conference. His alliance with Drew Mestemaker from North Texas — the previous season’s leading passer — further strengthens Morris’s approach. Known as a quarterback mentor from his days at Incarnate Word and Washington State, he’s anticipated to elevate Oklahoma State’s ranking quickly.
Anticipate widespread recognition of Morris’s achievements by season-end, potentially attracting attention from prestigious programs nationally.
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