Mark Stoops reveals QB Cutter Boley committed to return to Kentucky in 2026

Cutter Boley is planning to return to Kentucky in 2026. Mark Stoops revealed the news on his radio show on Monday, calling UK “home” for his redshirt freshman QB.

“We have a good nucleus of guys,” Stoops told the voice of Kentucky, Tom Leach. “It’s certainly important to get that QB, you know? It’s great to have a young QB,” Stoops said. “Cutter’s been nothing but all in and loving Kentucky. He wants to be here and we just got to make sure we build a good team around him.”

The budding Kentucky QB has progressed mightily since taking over for veteran Zach Calzada mid-season. He has the Wildcats one win away from becoming bowl eligible after a 2-5 start to the season.

Boley was highly recruited out of high school, and with him playing his best football over the last month, there was potential of him being sought after in the NCAA transfer portal this offseason. However, it doesn’t appear that any other team will get their chance given Stoops’ declaration on Monday.

A Kentucky native, Boley grew up a fan of Kentucky football. Broadcasts of UK football games often showcase older photos of a younger Boley in the crowd rocking Kentucky blue. Now, he’s reaffirmed his original pledge to help lead the Wildcats moving forward.

Boley has thrown for 2,060 yards, 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions so far during his redshirt freshman season. He’s rushed for 114 yards and two extra touchdowns on the round as well.

Kentucky’s effort vs. Louisville this weekend will be contingent on the 6-foot-5, 220 pound signal caller’s abilities. Boley saw limited action against the Cardinals one season ago, seeing him complete 6 of his 15 passing attempts for 48 yards and two interceptions. Louisville would go on to win 41-14 — a final score that Boley and the Wildcats won’t want to replicate.

Boley has a whole season of extra experience under his belt since that outing. Additionally, Louisville has lost its last three games after a 7-1 start to the 2025 season, so the matchup comes at a perfect time for the Wildcats.

Kickoff between Kentucky and Louisville is set for Saturday at Noon ET. The matchup for the Governor’s Cup will air live on the ACC Network.