Oregon State Names JaMarcus Shephard as New Head Coach

CORVALLIS, Ore. — Oregon State University has agreed to terms on a five-year deal with JaMarcus Shephard to be the school’s next head football coach, according to ESPN sources. The formal announcement is expected soon.

Shephard, currently the co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at the University of Alabama, will take over the head coaching position following the dismissal of Trent Bray in October. Bray left the program with a record of 5-14 over two seasons.

This season has been challenging for Oregon State, which is currently 2-9 amid significant changes in college football dynamics, particularly due to the recent fragmentation of the Pac-12 Conference. Following the realignment, the Beavers will only compete alongside Washington State next fall, making Shephard’s task to stabilize and develop the program even more critical.

Shephard brings a wealth of experience from his time at major programs. He coached at Washington, where he was part of the staff that competed in the national championship game after the 2023 season. Prior to that, he held various coaching positions at Purdue University, where he was recognized for his ability to develop talent, including first-team All-Americans.

In a statement, sources noted that Shephard is known for his strong connections in recruiting and his track record of coaching elite wide receivers, which will be vital for Oregon State as it looks to enhance its competitive edge.

As Oregon State wraps up its season against Washington State this weekend, Shephard’s hiring marks a pivotal moment for the Beavers as they aim to regain stability and success in an evolving college sports landscape.

This will be Shephard’s first head coaching role, and it comes at a time of significant uncertainty for the program, but he sees it as a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact.