Kefense Hynson brings NFL experience back to the ranks, tasked with revitalizing a stagnant Knights aerial attack behind transfer quarterback Alonza Barnett III and a revamped receiving corps.
UCF is adding another former NFL coach to its staff, hiring former Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass game coordinator Kefense Hynson in the same role for the Knights.
He spent one season with the Buccaneers as their pass game coordinator, and it was a down year. The offense finished 20th in passing yards per game (205.9) and totaled 3,500 yards for the season.
Injuries plagued Tampa Bay's receiving room, and quarterback Baker Mayfield tried to power through injuries, too. He had an underwhelming season after a career year in 2024 under Liam Coen, who became the Jacksonville Jaguars' coach in the following season.
The Knights' passing game also struggled last season. They finished 10th in the Big 12 in passing yards per game (220.8), and similarly dealt with injuries to the quarterback room.
One aspect the team significantly struggled with was the deep passing game. Tayven Jackson -- the most available starter for UCF -- often could not complete deep passes, which led to quick three-and-outs throughout conference play.
However, it should be a different story next season. Hynson will mentor Alonza Barnett III as the starting quarterback with a deep, talented wide receiver group and tight end Dylan Wade.
Barnett III threw for over 2,500 yards in his last two seasons at James Madison, including 49 touchdowns to 12 interceptions. He led the Dukes to their first College Football Playoff appearance in program history.
UCF added a serious receiving threat in Josh Derry, who earned the nickname "Scary Derry." His speed can unlock the deep passing game or quickly rack up yards after the catch.
Wade is coming off a historic season for a tight end. He recorded 43 receptions for 523 yards and five touchdowns, all career highs and season highs for a UCF tight end.
Hynson makes his return to college after one year in the NFL. He spent six years at Oregon State, starting in 2018 as the wide receivers coach and pass game coordinator until 2023.
The Beavers named him the interim head coach after Jonathan Smith accepted a position at Michigan State. Hynson returned to his normal duties for the 2024 season before making his move to Tampa Bay.
UCF's new passing game coordinator has always specialized on the offensive end. He's been a running backs coach, quarterbacks coach, tight ends coach and offensive coordinator.
He had a brief stint in the NFL with the Buccaneers, but Hynson is still bringing pro-level experience to a program aiming to win a conference championship.
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