Eddie Gran officially returns to Kentucky: "This place is special."

Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops has announced former offensive coordinator Eddie Gran will return to the program as a special assistant to the head coach, an off-the-field role.

Gran, who served as the Wildcats’ assistant head coach of the offense, offensive coordinator and running backs coach from 2016-2020, was relieved of his duties back in December.

KSR first reported the news on Thursday.

“I’m grateful to have somebody with the experience of Eddie Gran rejoining our program in a different capacity,” Stoops said. “Eddie has a wealth of experience in many different areas. He will be an asset to me and our program.”

In 2016-18, UK had more than 2,000 rushing yards and 2,000 passing yards, the first time in school history that was accomplished in three consecutive seasons.

“Why would I come back? It’s simple. I love Kentucky,” Gran said. “I love working with Coach Stoops and I want to be a positive role model in these young men’s lives. I am excited to have the opportunity to return to this program and help any way I can. This place is special and it’s where I want to work and finish out my career.”

During Gran’s five-year stint as offensive coordinator and running backs coach, the Wildcats went 36-26 and appeared in five straight bowls, highlighted by a 10-win season and Citrus Bowl victory in 2018.

Now, Gran is officially returning to the program as a special assistant.