Kentucky Wildcats Hire Nate Fuqua as Defensive Analyst

Kentucky head football coach Mark Stoops has officially announced the hiring of Danville, Kentucky native Nate Fuqua as a defensive analyst. Fuqua returns to his home state with over two decades of coaching experience, including defensive coordinator stints at Cincinnati, Georgia State, and Wofford. In his new role, he will primarily work with the Wildcats’ outside linebackers.

“We are excited to have Nate Fuqua join our program,” Stoops said. “He brings a lot of experience as he’s been a defensive coach for more than 20 years, including a defensive coordinator for the last 11. He’s also a Kentucky native and is familiar with this program, having grown up in Danville. He is a welcomed addition to our defensive room.”

A Wealth of Coaching Experience

Fuqua (pronounced FEW-quay) arrives at Kentucky after spending two seasons as Cincinnati's co-defensive coordinator. In 2023, he worked with the outside linebackers, and in 2024, he coached the STARS safety position. One of his standout pupils was freshman safety Jiquan Sanks, who recorded 42 tackles and became the first freshman to start a season opener for Cincinnati since 2015.

Before his tenure with the Bearcats, Fuqua spent six years (2017-22) as the defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach at Georgia State. His impact was significant, helping 24 players earn all-conference honors and five Panthers sign professional contracts. His defensive units consistently performed at a high level, ranking second in the Sun Belt in rushing defense in 2020 and 2021. His star outside linebacker, Jordan Strachan, tied for first in the FBS with a school-record 10.5 sacks. Additionally, in 2022, Georgia State’s defense ranked 11th nationally with 25 forced turnovers.

Fuqua’s tenure at Georgia State also included four bowl appearances and three victories (2017, 2020, and 2021), further solidifying his reputation as a defensive mastermind.

Returning Home to the Bluegrass State

Fuqua’s journey back to Kentucky is a full-circle moment for the former Danville High School standout. Before his collegiate coaching career, he spent 12 seasons (2005-16) at his alma mater, Wofford, where he progressed from a position coach to defensive coordinator. Under his leadership, Wofford’s defense reached elite levels, ranking fifth nationally in total defense and sixth in scoring defense during the 2016 season. The Terriers advanced to the FCS quarterfinals that year, allowing just 17.1 points per game.

As a player, Fuqua was a four-year starter at nose tackle for Wofford, earning All-Southern Conference honors four times and All-American recognition twice. His name remains in the school’s record books for career tackles for loss and sacks. In 2008, he was inducted into the Wofford College Athletic Hall of Fame.

Beyond his collegiate success, Fuqua left an indelible mark on Kentucky high school football. At Danville High School, he earned First Team All-State honors as a nose tackle and offensive guard and was named Area Lineman of the Year. He was also selected for the Kentucky-Tennessee All-Star game and inducted into the Danville High School Hall of Fame in 2007.

Looking Ahead at Kentucky

Now 44, Fuqua is eager to join Kentucky’s defensive coaching staff alongside Stoops and defensive coordinator Brad White.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to work with Coach Stoops and Coach Brad White,” Fuqua said. “Being able to learn from two of the best defensive coaches in the game is a tremendous opportunity and something I could not pass up. This is also a great move for my family because we get to return to our home state and be a part of the Big Blue Nation.”

With Fuqua’s extensive coaching background and deep ties to Kentucky football, the Wildcats have added a seasoned defensive mind who understands the program’s culture. His ability to develop talent, improve defensive schemes, and mentor players will be a valuable asset as Kentucky continues its pursuit of success in the SEC.