The Will Stein Era Begins: Takeaways from the 2026 Kentucky Football Spring Game

Live: Will Stein “I got really teary eyed running out of that tunnel, I did…It’s just the first time I’ve run out of the tunnel and when you hear that fight song, wow.”

— UK Sports Network (@UKSportsNetwork) April 18, 2026 Despite storms threatening the afternoon and the west side of the stadium being closed for ongoing renovations, the energy inside Kroger Field carried a different charge than recent spring games. New faces, new schemes, new staff, and a fanbase that showed up ready to buy in.

Minchey Steady at the Helm

Kenny Minchey, the starting quarterback heading into fall camp, had a productive afternoon and spoke after the game about how valuable the spring has been for his development. He talked about teammates stepping up and making big plays throughout the process, a sign that competition has raised the level of the room.

Rodriguez Looks the Part

Perhaps the most buzzed-about name on the field was tight end Willie Rodriguez, who returned to Lexington despite the coaching change. Rodriguez made plays throughout the afternoon and drew praise from both Stein and Minchey after the game. Most observers around the program believe it’s a matter of when, not if, Rodriguez hears his name called on NFL Draft weekend, and today did nothing to change that sentiment.

Bateman’s Defense Makes a Statement

Defensive coordinator Jay Bateman, who departed Texas A&M last season to join Stein’s staff, oversaw a defensive unit that looked physical and opportunistic. Multiple members of the staff and Minchey himself spoke highly of the group after the game, and returning safety Ty Bryant stood out as a veteran presence in the secondary. The message from this defense was simple: they attack the ball.

Keep an Eye on Kenny Darby