Kentucky Fires Mark Stoops After 13 Seasons: What’s His Net Worth and Buyout Package?

The University of Kentucky has officially parted ways with head coach Mark Stoops following a second consecutive losing season, as reported by On3’s Pete Nakos and Chris Low. Stoops, who completed his 13th season at Kentucky, holds the record as the school’s all-time winningest football coach.

Stoops Reacts to the Decision

After Kentucky’s loss to Louisville last week, Stoops had firmly stated that he would not voluntarily resign. “Like, I’m going to walk away? Are you kidding me? … Zero percent chance I walk,” he told reporters. “I’m going to be here as far as I’m concerned. Now I can’t control what decision [is going] to be made. If you’re asking me, I said zero. Zero means zero.”

Despite his strong stance, Stoops was open to negotiating a separation agreement that would allow the university to distribute his buyout payments over several years rather than in a lump sum, according to reports.

A Look at Mark Stoops’ Career

The Ohio native transformed Kentucky football during his tenure. Highlights include:

• Eight consecutive bowl appearances (2016–2023), a school record.
• 10-win seasons in 2018 and 2021.
• Historic victories over SEC rivals like Florida and Louisville.
  

Under Stoops, Kentucky evolved from an SEC underdog into a reliable contender, achieving consistency and respect within a competitive conference. In 2022, he secured a contract extension through 2030, underscoring what was once considered a long-term partnership.

Stoops also became the SEC’s longest-serving coach at Kentucky and surpassed Bear Bryant’s record for the most wins in school history, reaching 60 victories with a win over Florida in 2022.

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Mark Stoops’ Buyout Details

Parting ways with Stoops triggers a significant contract clause. According to a 2017 amendment, Kentucky must pay him 75% of his remaining salary within 60 days if dismissed without just cause. This amounts to a buyout of nearly $38 million, reflecting the university’s commitment to honoring his long-standing contract.

Mark Stoops’ Net Worth

As of 2025, Mark Stoops’ net worth is estimated at $9 million, according to Essentially Sports. This figure accounts for his high annual salary as head coach, contractual incentives, and years of successful program development. Some media reports, however, suggest a more conservative estimate of $2.5 million, likely based on accumulated salary and bonus earnings over his career.

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Looking Ahead

Kentucky will now begin the search for Stoops’ successor, aiming to build on the foundation he laid over more than a decade. Despite recent struggles on the field, Stoops’ legacy as the school’s winningest coach and his role in elevating the program will remain a defining chapter in Kentucky football history.

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