Dan Mullen Emerges as Top Candidate for Oklahoma Sooners’ Offensive Coordinator Position

The University of Oklahoma is in the midst of a critical search for a new offensive coordinator, a decision that could significantly impact the future of head coach Brent Venables. Among the several candidates being considered, former head coach Dan Mullen has gained considerable attention and support from various quarters.

Mullen, who has previously served as the head coach at Florida and Mississippi State, is currently working as a college football analyst and commentator for ESPN. His credentials in coaching offense and developing quarterbacks are highly regarded, making him an attractive candidate for the Sooners. Former Oklahoma player and current ESPN analyst Dusty Dvoracek has strongly advocated for Mullen, stating that he would be his top choice if he were in Venables’ position.

“On my list, my number one person I’m calling is Dan Mullen,” Dvoracek said during an appearance on the “Oklahoma Breakdown with Ikard and Lehman” podcast. “I have no idea if he would even entertain the conversation…but I’d pick up the phone and make him tell me no. The dude can coach offense with anybody in the sport, and he can develop quarterbacks as well as anybody in the sport.”

Other candidates in the mix include Brennan Marion, the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at UNLV; Mike Shanahan, the co-offensive coordinator at Indiana; and Zach Kitley, the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Texas Tech. However, Mullen’s experience and track record make him a standout option, despite the uncertainty of whether he would leave his current role at ESPN for anything less than a head coaching position.

The importance of this hire cannot be overstated, as the Sooners’ offensive performance has been a significant issue this season. The team’s current interim offensive coordinator, Joe Jon Finley, and quarterback coach Kevin Johns are not expected to retain their roles going forward, adding to the urgency of finding the right candidate.