Mark Stoops Reveals Kentucky’s Starting Quarterback If Season Began Tomorrow, Giving Fans First Glimpse at Depth Chart Leadership Decision.

As the Kentucky Wildcats football team begins preparations for the 2025 season, head coach Mark Stoops made headlines by offering clarity on one of the most closely watched position battles of the offseason. During his latest media appearance, Stoops revealed who would be Kentucky’s starting quarterback if the Wildcats were to play a game tomorrow — and the answer provides key insight into how the competition is shaping up ahead of fall camp.

The Statement That Sparked the Buzz

In what was originally meant to be a broad preseason check-in with reporters, Stoops was asked directly about the status of the quarterback competition. His answer was simple but telling.

“If we played tomorrow, Brock Vandagriff would take the first snap,” Stoops said.

That declaration immediately sent ripples through the fanbase and college football media. While Stoops was careful to note that the competition is far from over, naming a current leader at quarterback confirms the staff’s confidence in Georgia transfer Brock Vandagriff and his progress since arriving in Lexington.

Who Is Brock Vandagriff?

Vandagriff, a former five-star recruit out of Bogart, Georgia, transferred to Kentucky this offseason after spending three years at the University of Georgia. Buried on the depth chart behind Stetson Bennett and Carson Beck, Vandagriff saw limited in-game action during his time in Athens. However, the tools have always been there — a strong arm, quick release, and the mobility to extend plays under pressure.

At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Vandagriff fits the mold of a modern SEC quarterback and has impressed coaches throughout spring practices and summer workouts.

“Brock’s a competitor. He brings a lot of maturity and toughness to the table,” offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan said. “He’s handled the playbook well, and he’s building trust with our guys.”

What This Means for the Quarterback Room

Stoops’ statement doesn’t close the door on other contenders — particularly Cutter Boley and Destin Wade — but it gives Vandagriff a clear leg up as the team transitions from summer strength training into the heart of camp. Boley, the talented freshman from Lexington Christian Academy, is widely seen as the quarterback of the future, but the staff appears more comfortable allowing him to develop before throwing him into the fire.

Wade, meanwhile, remains a versatile weapon and could still carve out a unique role in the offense, even if he doesn’t win the starting job.

“This is a long camp,” Stoops reminded reporters. “There’s a lot of time for guys to make a move. I’ve seen it happen before.”

Depth Chart Implications and Offensive Identity

With Liam Coen having departed to return to the NFL and Bush Hamdan stepping in as the new offensive coordinator, there has been considerable curiosity about how Kentucky’s offense will look this fall. While Hamdan has hinted at keeping some continuity from previous systems, he’s also expressed excitement about tailoring the scheme to Vandagriff’s strengths — should he win the job outright.

“Brock can throw from multiple platforms, and he’s really smart at reading defenses,” Hamdan said. “That opens up a lot for us in the intermediate passing game, especially with the talent we have at receiver.”

Kentucky returns key offensive weapons like Barion Brown and Dane Key at receiver, alongside tight end Jordan Dingle and running back Ramon Jefferson, all of whom figure to make life easier for whichever quarterback takes the reins.

If Vandagriff continues to lead the way, fans can expect a more vertical passing game than what Kentucky showcased last year under Devin Leary. That said, Hamdan also emphasized balance.

“We’re going to run the ball,” Hamdan said. “But when you’ve got guys who can win on the outside and a quarterback who can get it to them, we’re going to be aggressive.”

Stoops’ Confidence in the Room

For Stoops, having this level of depth and talent at quarterback is a welcome change compared to previous years when the starter was often set in stone due to limited options behind him. This year, the competition has brought out the best in the room.

“I like the energy in that group,” Stoops said. “They’re pushing each other, but they’re supporting each other too. That’s what you want to see.”

That sentiment was echoed by veteran receiver Barion Brown, who praised Vandagriff’s leadership and consistency.

“He comes in every day like it’s game day,” Brown said. “You can tell he wants it.”

What Comes Next?

Fall camp will ultimately determine who starts when Kentucky opens its season against Akron on August 31. While Stoops’ comments suggest Vandagriff has the inside track, coaches remain committed to giving all contenders meaningful reps.

Fans will get their next peek into the position battle during the open practice sessions in early August. Until then, Vandagriff’s name will be the one circled at the top of the unofficial depth chart.

“I still need to earn it,” Vandagriff said after practice. “I don’t take anything for granted. This is a new team, a new system, and I’ve got to prove I belong every day.”

Stoops’ announcement — subtle though it may have seemed — represents a major milestone for the 2025 Kentucky football team. Establishing early leadership at quarterback can offer needed stability for an offense looking to rebound from a rollercoaster 2024 season.

The Vandagriff era in Lexington may not officially be underway yet, but as of now, the reins are in his hands. Whether he holds onto them will be one of the most compelling storylines of Kentucky’s fall camp.