Former Kentucky coach Joker Phillips did not stay unemployed for long. One month after being fired from Kentucky (although allowed to coach until the end of the season) Phillips has landed back in the SEC as the wide receiver’s coach and recruiting coordinator at Florida.
The news was first reported by the Gainesville Sun and was announced later by the university.
“We are excited to have Joker join our staff,” said Will Muschamp. “His background as a head coach and the number of years he has coached wide receivers will be a tremendous asset to our coaching staff and players. Joker is obviously very familiar with the Southeastern Conference and has always done a great job in recruiting.
“Obviously I had a number of experiences with Joker both on and off the field, as our paths have crossed often, but I’ve been really impressed with Joker Phillips as a man during this hiring process.”
“I’m thrilled to become part of the Gator family,” said Phillips. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to compete and win at the highest level. I believe in Coach Muschamp’s philosophy and what he has done in his short time here at Florida is phenomenal.
“I’m looking forward to contributing to the long-term vision that he has for this program. In addition, it will be very rewarding to be involved in the hands-on development of the players I will coach.”
Phillips has an extensive resume coaching wide receivers and is thought of as a great recruiter. He replaces Aubrey Hill, who resigned before the start of the season.