Washington State hires Kirby Moore as football head coach

Washington State University announced the hiring of 35‑year‑old Kirby Moore as the Cougars’ new head football coach. Moore, who most recently served as Missouri’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, will receive a base salary of $2 million beginning in 2026. He replaces Jimmy Rogers, who departed for Iowa State after one season. Moore’s résumé includes prior offensive‑coordinator roles at Fresno State and a graduate‑assistant stint at the University of Washington.

In related news, several key running backs have chosen to remain with the program. Senior Kirby Vorhees, who led the team last season, along with Maxwell Woods and Leo Pulalasi, signed NIL agreements and cited trust in the coaching staff as a major factor. Their unit will be overseen by veteran assistant coach Justin Green, a former Montana assistant with a strong track record developing backs.

The moves aim to stabilize the Cougars after recent staff turnover and to build continuity for the upcoming season.