“Kentucky Wildcats Face Major Setback with Vince Marrow’s Departure but Have Strong Options to Fill the Void at Tight Ends Coach”
The Kentucky Wildcats football program has been dealt a significant blow with the departure of Vince Marrow, a cornerstone of their coaching staff and a pivotal figure in their recruiting success. Marrow, who served as the tight ends coach and was widely regarded as one of the best recruiters in the SEC, leaves behind big shoes to fill. His ability to connect with players, his relentless work ethic, and his deep ties to the Midwest recruiting scene made him an invaluable asset to Mark Stoops’ staff. While his exit is undoubtedly a setback, Kentucky is not without options—there are several strong candidates who could step in and ensure the tight ends room remains productive while maintaining the program’s recruiting momentum.
Vince Marrow wasn’t just a position coach; he was a program pillar. Since joining Kentucky in 2013 alongside Mark Stoops, Marrow played a crucial role in transforming the Wildcats from an SEC afterthought into a consistent bowl team. His recruiting prowess was unmatched, particularly in Ohio, where he helped land key players that elevated Kentucky’s talent level. As the tight ends coach, he developed NFL-caliber talent, including C.J. Conrad and Justin Rigg, while also serving as the associate head coach. His departure leaves a void not just in coaching but in leadership and recruiting clout.
Replacing Marrow won’t be easy, but Kentucky must act swiftly to ensure stability. The good news is that there are several qualified candidates who could step into the role and keep the tight ends unit performing at a high level.
Top Candidates to Replace Vince Marrow
1. Jon Sumrall (Troy Head Coach, Former Kentucky Assistant)
If Kentucky wants to make a splash, Jon Sumrall could be an intriguing option—though it would require him to take a step back from being a head coach. Sumrall, a former Wildcats linebacker and assistant coach, has deep ties to the program and understands its culture. After leading Troy to back-to-back Sun Belt championships, he has proven himself as a strong leader and developer of talent. While it might be a long shot to lure him away from a head coaching role, his familiarity with Kentucky and recruiting acumen make him an ideal candidate.
2. Lamar Thomas (Current WR Coach, Former NFL Tight End)
An internal promotion could be the smoothest transition. Lamar Thomas, currently Kentucky’s wide receivers coach, has experience coaching tight ends and even played the position in the NFL. His energy, recruiting ability, and existing relationships with players could make him a seamless fit. Promoting from within would also maintain continuity in the staff, which is crucial for player development and recruiting stability.
3. James Casey (Former NFL TE, Current Houston Texans TE Coach)
If Kentucky wants an NFL-experienced coach, James Casey could be a great fit. A former NFL tight end who played under Gary Kubiak, Casey has transitioned well into coaching, currently serving as the Houston Texans’ tight ends coach. His playing experience and professional insight could be invaluable in developing Kentucky’s tight ends for the next level.
Tony Dews has a strong résumé, having coached tight ends at West Virginia and spent time in the NFL with the Tennessee Titans. His recruiting ties in the Mid-Atlantic and his experience developing tight ends in both college and the pros make him a strong candidate.
Joe Cox, currently Georgia’s tight ends coach, has been part of a national championship staff and knows the SEC inside and out. A former quarterback at Georgia, Cox transitioned into coaching and has quickly risen through the ranks. His recruiting connections in the Southeast and experience in a high-powered offense could be appealing to Kentucky.
Recruiting never stops in college football, and with Marrow’s departure, Kentucky risks losing ground in key recruiting battles—especially in Ohio, where Marrow was dominant. The new hire must be someone who can immediately connect with recruits and reassure current players that the program’s trajectory remains upward.
Additionally, the tight end position is becoming increasingly vital in modern offenses. Kentucky has utilized tight ends effectively in both the passing and running games, and the next coach must continue that tradition. Whether it’s an up-and-coming assistant or a seasoned veteran, the Wildcats need a coach who can develop talent and maintain the unit’s production.
Whoever gets the job will inherit a room with potential but also high expectations. The Wildcats have shown they can produce NFL tight ends, and the next coach must keep that pipeline flowing.
Change is inevitable in college football, and while Vince Marrow’s departure stings, it also presents an opportunity for Kentucky to bring in fresh energy and ideas. The right hire could not only maintain the program’s current success but elevate it further.
Mark Stoops has built Kentucky into a program that can withstand coaching turnover, and this next hire will be critical in ensuring that momentum continues. Whether it’s an internal promotion, a rising star from another school, or an NFL assistant, Kentucky must find a coach who can recruit, develop, and win—just like Vince Marrow did.
The Wildcats’ tight ends room is in good hands if they make the right move. Now, it’s up to Stoops and the administration to identify and secure the best possible replacement. The future of Kentucky football depends on it.
