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Gophers AD Mark Coyle Among Candidates for Kentucky Athletic Director Job
Coyle previously worked under Kentucky's longtime AD Mitch Barnhart and is seen as a top contender for the open position.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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The University of Kentucky's athletic director (AD) position recently opened up with the retirement of longtime AD Mitch Barnhart. Multiple reports have listed University of Minnesota AD Mark Coyle as a potential candidate for the job, given his previous experience working under Barnhart at Kentucky from 2006 to 2011.
Why it matters
The Kentucky AD job is considered one of the most prestigious in college athletics, overseeing the school's highly successful men's basketball program. Coyle's previous experience at Kentucky and strong track record at Minnesota make him an attractive candidate, though leaving the Gophers program he has built may be difficult.
The details
Coyle worked as deputy AD at Kentucky from 2006 to 2011 under Barnhart. After stints as AD at Boise State and Syracuse, Coyle became Minnesota's AD in 2016. While his tenures hiring the Gophers' men's and women's basketball coaches have drawn some criticism, Coyle has generally been praised for other hires, notably bringing in football coach P.J. Fleck.
- Barnhart announced his retirement as Kentucky's AD on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.
- Coyle has served as Minnesota's AD since 2016.
The players
Mark Coyle
The current athletic director at the University of Minnesota, who previously worked under Kentucky's longtime AD Mitch Barnhart from 2006 to 2011.
Mitch Barnhart
The retiring athletic director at the University of Kentucky, who has held the position for 24 years.
What’s next
The University of Kentucky is expected to begin its search for a new athletic director in the coming weeks, with Coyle's candidacy likely to be closely monitored.
The takeaway
Mark Coyle's previous experience working under Kentucky's longtime AD Mitch Barnhart, as well as his successful tenure at Minnesota, make him an intriguing candidate for the open Kentucky AD position. However, Coyle's strong ties to the Midwest and the University of Minnesota may make it difficult for him to leave, especially for a job that is not necessarily a clear step up from his current role.
