Kyle Whittingham May Continue Coaching After Departing Utah Utes
Kyle Whittingham, at 66 years old, has announced he will step down as the head coach of the University of Utah football team. After a remarkable 21-season tenure, he delivered a farewell message but avoided using the term ‘retirement’. This has sparked rumors about his future in coaching.
Kyle Whittingham’s Coaching Legacy
Whittingham has left an indelible mark on the Utes, with many players and fans expressing their gratitude. His son, Alex Whittingham, noted that his father still possesses a strong desire to contribute to a football team. “He still has that fire and that desire to do something in some capacity to help some team win,” Alex stated, reflecting the unwavering passion his father maintains even after stepping down.
Future Coaching Opportunities
Sources close to the coach reveal that Whittingham is not retiring. Instead, he may pursue additional coaching opportunities. The speculation surrounding his next move indicates that he is not ready to completely exit the football scene.
- Whittingham’s last game will be on December 31 at the Las Vegas Bowl against Nebraska.
- His recent contract amendment allowed for a $3.45 million annual salary as a special assistant for two years.
- Prior to the amendment, he was set to earn $995,000 annually for a similar role.
Alex Whittingham shared insights about their conversation regarding his father’s decision. “When I conversed with him, he mentioned this is not going to be full-on retirement,” he said. This statement suggests that Whittingham’s passion for coaching remains undiminished.
Conclusion
As the football community awaits Kyle Whittingham’s next steps, it is clear that his impact on the sport and the Utes will be felt for years to come. His future endeavors may hold exciting possibilities in the realm of football coaching.