Oregon State University has officially named JaMarcus Shepard as its new head football coach. This significant new head coach announcement highlights the university’s commitment to revitalizing its program, with Shepard bringing a wealth of experience from top-tier coaching positions. The selection of this Oregon State Coach is expected to energize the team and its fanbase, marking a new era under an experienced Oregon State Coach.
From Alabama Assistant Coach to Oregon State
Shepard most recently served as assistant head coach, co-offensive coordinator, and wide receivers coach at Alabama. He joined the Crimson Tide staff in 2024, transitioning from his role as assistant head coach, passing game coordinator, and wide receivers coach at Washington from 2022-2023. As an Alabama assistant coach, he was instrumental in the Huskies’ impressive run to the 2024 College Football Playoff national championship game. This experience makes him a well-prepared Oregon State Coach, ready to lead the Beavers.
A Rich Coaching Background for an Oregon State Coach
Shepard’s coaching journey includes significant roles at various institutions, establishing him as a respected figure. Before Washington, he coached with Jeff Brohm at Purdue, serving as the wide receivers coach and pass game coordinator starting in 2017, and later promoted to co-offensive coordinator. He also spent one season (2016) on Mike Leach’s staff at Washington State. His collegiate coaching career began at Western Kentucky, where he started as a volunteer in 2011 and 2012 before moving into quality control roles. The choice of this Oregon State Coach reflects a desire for proven offensive minds, a hallmark of a strong Oregon State Coach.
Building a Culture of Success under the New Oregon State Coach
Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes expressed immense excitement about the hire, highlighting Shepard’s character and leadership qualities. Barnes specifically noted Shepard’s genuine persona and his ability to connect with student-athletes, crucial traits for any successful Oregon State Coach. President Jayathi Murthy also welcomed Shepard, believing his energy and experience will drive success for the Beavers football program. Shepard himself stated his commitment to building a specific culture defined by toughness, integrity, and relentless effort, and is eager to work with players and staff to write the next chapter of Beaver football as the new Oregon State Coach.
Player Development and Offensive Prowess: The JaMarcus Shepard Hire
The JaMarcus Shepard hire brings a reputation for developing elite playmakers, a key factor in his selection as Oregon State Coach. At Washington, he coached standout wide receivers Rome Odunze and Ja’Lynn Polk, both of whom earned first-team All-American honors. In his recent role at Alabama, he continued to develop top-tier receivers. Shepard’s offensive expertise was a significant contributor to Alabama’s high rankings in points and passing yards. His resume prominently features coaching some of the nation’s most dynamic receiving duos and trios, making him an exciting Oregon State Coach.
The Path to Head Coach: A New Oregon State Coach
The coaching search concluded with the selection of Shepard following the dismissal of Trent Bray in October 2025. Shepard quickly emerged as a leading candidate for the Oregon State football coach position, reportedly targeted by the university after other candidates withdrew or accepted different roles. He has finalized a five-year contract with the university, solidifying his role as the new Oregon State Coach. Shepard will be formally introduced at a press conference on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He faces the considerable challenge of leading Oregon State into a new conference landscape as the university navigates its future outside of a major conference structure, a task for this determined Oregon State Coach.
A Look Ahead for Oregon State Football News
Shepard’s hiring signals a clear offensive focus for the Beavers, a significant development in Oregon State football news. His extensive background in developing wide receivers and coordinating high-powered offenses is a major asset. The addition of Shepard aims to invigorate the Oregon State football program, with fans eagerly anticipating his impact on the recruiting trail and on the field. This new head coach announcement provides crucial updates for Oregon football news and the trajectory of the university’s athletic programs, marking a new and promising chapter for the Oregon State football coach.
