COACHING UPDATE: Kentucky Football Promotes Derek Shay to Tight Ends Coach, Marking Key Staff Move The University of Kentucky has officially elevated Derek Shay to Tight Ends Coach, reinforcing Mark Stoops’ coaching staff with a familiar face. Shay’s promotion reflects his rising influence within the program and underscores Kentucky’s commitment to continuity and internal development heading into the new season.

Mark Stoops wasted no time filling the vacancy left by Vince Marrow’s departure. Just over a day after Marrow officially accepted a position at Louisville, Kentucky named Derek Shay as the program’s new tight ends coach, signaling a swift and seamless transition within the Wildcats’ staff.

In announcing the promotion, Stoops expressed confidence in Shay’s readiness for the role. “We’re fortunate to already have someone on staff with experience coaching tight ends at a high level and who has successfully led those position rooms,” Stoops said, emphasizing both continuity and the trust the program has in Shay’s coaching abilities.

Stoops further praised Shay’s fit within the offensive scheme, highlighting his strong alignment with new offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan’s system. “He is familiar with Coach Hamdan’s system, and I’m very confident in his abilities,” Stoops noted, pointing to Shay’s readiness to contribute immediately.

He also emphasized the qualities that make Shay a valuable asset to the staff, citing his versatility, high football IQ, and on-field toughness. According to Stoops, these traits will play a key role in enhancing the Wildcats’ offensive execution and development heading into the new season.

Shay’s familiarity with offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan’s system stems from their prior working relationship, which began during their time together on Missouri’s support staff. That connection carried over to Kentucky, where Shay was one of the few staffers Hamdan personally brought along. Throughout the 2024 season, Shay worked closely with Hamdan, sitting beside him in the booth and gaining deeper insight into the offensive philosophy.

Before rejoining Hamdan, Shay gained valuable on-field experience as Marshall’s tight ends coach in 2023. He also spent time at LSU as a graduate assistant in the tight ends room, beginning his high-major coaching career shortly after the Tigers captured the national title. These combined experiences have shaped Shay into a well-rounded coach, prepared for his new role at Kentucky.

“Derek is a very knowledgeable coach with an outstanding work ethic. Our players and coaches at LSU loved him—not just as a coach, but as a man,” said former LSU head coach Ed Oregeron.