Now the Wildcats' second-year coach is trying to turn that added talent into a few more victories.
Stoops is still looking for his first victory in the Southeastern Conference following a 2-10 season in 2013, including an 0-8 mark in conference.
Stoops said on Thursday at SEC Media Days that the Wildcats are "physically better" and that "hopefully that will translate to more wins."
Kentucky returns 15 starters from last season, including seven on offense and eight on defense. But there is still some uncertainty at quarterback with Patrick Towles, Maxwell Smith, Reese Phillips and Drew Barker battling for the job.
Smith threw for 1,276 yards last season, but missed all of spring workouts because of a shoulder injury.