Utah’s legendary head football coach Kyle Whittingham has sparked speculation about his future after expressing uncertainty over his return for the 2025 season. The 65-year-old, who has led the program since 2005, addressed the matter during a news conference on Monday, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success above all else.
“I will obviously evaluate after the season’s over, see what the situation is,” Whittingham stated. “My decision will be made on what’s best for the program, not what’s best for me. It’ll be completely determined on how I feel this program is best served going forward.”
Whittingham’s career at Utah spans nearly three decades. He joined the program in 1994, serving as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator before succeeding Urban Meyer as head coach in 2005. Under his leadership, Utah has become a powerhouse in college football, boasting a 166-86 record. His tenure includes seven seasons with 10 or more wins, 17 seasons with a winning record, and two undefeated campaigns—the most recent being a 13-0 season in 2008 capped by a Sugar Bowl victory over Alabama.
Despite these accomplishments, the Utes’ current season has been challenging. They enter their final game against UCF with a 4-7 record and a seven-game losing streak. Utah’s inaugural season in the Big 12 has been tough, reflected in their 1-7 conference record. These struggles add a layer of complexity to Whittingham’s decision about continuing his coaching career.
Whenever Whittingham decides to step down, the program has a succession plan in place. Defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley, the designated “head coach in waiting,” is poised to take over. Whittingham acknowledged Scalley’s future role, underscoring his involvement in shaping the program.
“I can tell you right now that coach Scalley will be involved in decisions going forward,” Whittingham affirmed, reported by ESPN. “It’s only right that he does that because he’s the coach in waiting. And when that time comes, we’ll make sure he’s had input on big decisions. It’ll be a team effort as far as hiring, recruiting and that type of thing.”
As one of the longest-tenured coaches in college football—tied with Mike Gundy of Oklahoma State and second only to Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz—Whittingham’s potential departure marks the end of an era. Whether he decides to continue or pass the reins, his legacy as a transformative figure in Utah football remains firmly intact.