Kentucky Football Welcomes New Staff Members, Including Former Player
Kentucky football is making significant strides by adding experienced and familiar faces to its coaching staff. Head coach Mark Stoops has officially introduced three new hires:
- Paul Rodriguez – A former Kentucky offensive tackle, now taking on the role of a graduate assistant.
- Brad Lambert – Former head coach at Charlotte, now serving as a defensive analyst, specializing in nickelbacks.
- Kevin Barbay – Ex-offensive coordinator at Houston, joining as an offensive analyst.
These new hires bring fresh energy, leadership, and expertise to Kentucky’s football program as the team prepares for the 2025 season.
Paul Rodriguez: A Homecoming for a Former Wildcat
For Paul Rodriguez, returning to Kentucky feels like coming full circle. After a career-ending injury forced him to retire early, Rodriguez remained close to the program. Now, he returns as a graduate assistant working with the offensive line, contributing his valuable insights as a former player. Despite his playing career being cut short, his deep knowledge of Kentucky’s system and culture makes him a strong asset to the team.
Brad Lambert: Defensive Expertise with Head Coaching Experience
Brad Lambert brings a wealth of defensive coaching experience to Kentucky. The former head coach at Charlotte (2011-2018), Lambert will now serve as a defensive analyst focusing on the nickelbacks. With an extensive coaching resume that includes stops at Wake Forest, Georgia, Marshall, and Purdue, Lambert’s defensive acumen will be a key asset to Kentucky’s staff. His expertise in secondary play and defensive schemes will help the Wildcats refine their defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Kevin Barbay: An Offensive Strategist with Broad Experience
Kevin Barbay joins Kentucky’s staff as an offensive analyst, bringing over two decades of coaching experience at various prestigious programs. Barbay most recently served as Houston’s offensive coordinator but was let go after just one season. His career includes stints at notable programs such as:
- Florida (2015-2017) – Director of Player Development
- Central Michigan (2019-2021) – Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator
- Appalachian State (2022) – Offensive Coordinator
- Mississippi State (2023) – Offensive Coordinator
Barbay’s expertise in coaching quarterbacks, wide receivers, and special teams brings a well-rounded offensive mindset to the team. As an analyst, he will focus on film breakdown, game planning, and helping with player development.
Enhancing Kentucky’s Coaching Staff
With these new additions, Mark Stoops continues to strengthen Kentucky’s coaching staff by blending youthful enthusiasm, extensive experience, and specialized knowledge. Rodriguez brings a deep connection to the program, Lambert offers defensive leadership, and Barbay provides offensive creativity. These hires will play an important role in shaping the Wildcats’ approach and strategy as the team moves through spring practices and prepares for the 2025 season.
