During the midst of spring football, Oklahoma’s coaching team was nearly disrupted.
Demarco Murray, the ex-OU standout and current coach for running backs, was apparently considered for a coaching role at Ohio State University.
Yet, as per a Wednesday afternoon report by Pete Nakos, the Sooners’ coach has secured a fresh three-year contract and will continue in his current position.
Oklahoma has offered running backs coach DeMarco Murray a new three-year contract, @On3sports has learned.
His name had been tied to the Ohio State opening in recent days. He is staying in Norman.
More: https://t.co/RG1zP0qQle pic.twitter.com/Xlwz2AZW5S
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) March 20, 2024
Murray began his coaching career in 2019 by joining Kevin Sumlin’s coaching staff at Arizona. After a year, he returned to Norman. Known for his adept recruiting skills, Murray played a crucial role in the development of players like Kennedy Brooks, Eric Gray, and Gavin Sawchuk. His efforts also contributed to securing the commitment of highly touted running back prospect Taylor Tatum for the Sooners in the class of 2024.
In January, Murray’s contract was extended through January 2026 with a salary increase from $500,000 to $575,000, likely in response to reported interest from Ohio State. Murray, a former NFL Offensive Player of the Year, had an opportunity to join Ohio State’s coaching staff, where he would have reunited with his former coach Chip Kelly from their time with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015.
His potential departure would have added to the offseason turnover for the Sooners, as offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby became Mississippi State’s head coach before the Alamo Bowl. This led to Brent Venables promoting Seth Littrell to co-offensive coordinator alongside Joe Jon Finley. Additionally, Venables appointed Zac Alley as the new defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, replacing Ted Roof. Jay Nunez, the special teams analyst, left for Alabama, with his role filled by Doug Deakin from San Diego State.
Despite the changes, spring football activities at OU are set to resume next week after a break for the university’s spring recess.
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