Three Emerging College Football Coaches to Watch in 2026

The 2025 college football coaching carousel was notably turbulent, creating opportunities that attracted a mix of reputable and emerging talent. High-profile jobs found new leaders, blending experienced names like Lane Kiffin and James Franklin with promising coordinators and Group of Five head coaches eager to make their mark.

Here we spotlight three first-time Power Four coaches poised to become widely recognized in 2026. Hardcore fans may already know them, but casual observers may find their successes surprising as the season progresses.

3. Will Stein – Kentucky Wildcats

Will Stein stepped into the role of head coach for the Kentucky Wildcats, drawing from his experience as Oregon’s offensive coordinator. While Tosh Lupoi, Oregon’s former defensive coordinator, also advanced to a head coaching position, Stein’s choice reflects a strategic decision based on infrastructure and SEC visibility.

Kentucky’s legacy under former coach Mark Stoops includes developmental success and competitive performance. Stein inherits a solid foundation, aiming to reinvigorate Kentucky’s traditionally defensive focus with his offensive expertise. Having worked in Dan Lanning’s system at Oregon, Stein is well-prepared for the challenges of leading a prominent college program. Many anticipate Kentucky to exceed expectations this season.

2. Bob Chesney – UCLA Bruins

Bob Chesney, with over ten years in the lower tiers of college football, now leads UCLA, following a successful stint at James Madison. He transformed the Dukes into a playoff contender swiftly, a testament to his adaptability and leadership.

Taking over a program with a history of mediocrity, Chesney’s winning pedigree makes him an ideal candidate to reignite the Bruins. The focus will be on recruiting, a critical challenge in the highly competitive environment. Despite being a debutant in power conferences, Chesney’s recruitment efforts show promise, with UCLA achieving a top-15 ranking in recruits.

Chesney’s skill in talent acquisition coupled with his coaching record suggests UCLA could see a significant turnaround under his leadership.

1. Eric Morris – Oklahoma State Cowboys

Eric Morris assumes the helm at Oklahoma State, a program with a solid legacy thanks to Mike Gundy’s long tenure. Morris brings a rich background in the Big 12, rooted in his playing days at Texas Tech under legendary coach Mike Leach, making him an Air Raid advocate.

He aims to challenge defenses with his aggressive offensive style, reinforced by bringing North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker with him. Mestemaker, who excelled last season, aims to replicate his success under Morris’ guidance. Morris has a reputation for developing quarterbacks, including his past successes with Cam Ward and John Mateer at Incarnate Word and Washington State.

Expected to flourish from day one, Morris could quickly become a national name. His strategic expertise and ability to mold quarterbacks will likely draw significant attention from major programs moving forward.