In a significant coaching move, DeMarco Murray has accepted the running backs coach position with the Kansas City Chiefs, departing the University of Oklahoma after six successful seasons with his alma mater.
DeMarco Murray’s Move to the NFL
The former Oklahoma standout and NFL rushing champion is making the transition from college coaching to the professional level, joining Andy Reid’s coaching staff in Kansas City. Multiple reports have confirmed that Murray will take over the Chiefs’ running backs coach role, marking a new chapter in his post-playing career.
Murray’s departure represents another major staffing change for the Sooners this offseason, following the exits of cornerbacks coach Jay Valai (who joined the Buffalo Bills) and tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley.
Murray’s Coaching Tenure at Oklahoma
Since returning to Norman in 2020, Murray established himself as both a respected position coach and elite recruiter. He initially joined the staff under Lincoln Riley before being retained when Brent Venables took over as head coach in late 2021.
Recruiting Success
Throughout his six-year tenure, Murray demonstrated exceptional recruiting abilities, bringing top-tier running back prospects to Oklahoma:
- Jonathan Hatton Jr. (2026 composite No. 4 running back)
- Micah Rhodes (2028 No. 1 running back – committed January 2026)
- Gavin Sawchuk
- Jovantae Barnes
- Tory Blaylock
- Taylor Tatum
- Xavier Robinson
On-Field Development
While his tenure faced occasional scrutiny from fans, Murray successfully developed several notable running backs during his time at Oklahoma, including Rhamondre Stevenson, Kennedy Brooks, and Eric Gray. The team did experience challenges with running back consistency from 2023 to 2025, largely attributed to injuries at the position.
DeMarco Murray’s Legendary Playing Career
Before transitioning to coaching, Murray built an impressive resume both as a college player and NFL star.
College Career at Oklahoma (2007-2010)
- Career leader in all-purpose yards and touchdowns at Oklahoma
- Accumulated over 5,000 total yards
- Scored 63 touchdowns
- Played on three Big 12 championship teams
- Contributed to the 2008 team that reached the National Championship Game
NFL Achievements
Murray’s seven-season NFL career was highlighted by exceptional performances, particularly with the Dallas Cowboys:
- 2014 NFL Offensive Player of the Year
- Led the NFL in rushing in 2014
- Played for the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Tennessee Titans
- Established himself as one of the premier running backs of his era
What This Means for Oklahoma
With Murray’s departure, Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables faces the task of finding his third offensive position coach replacement this offseason. The Sooners recently hired Jason Witten to replace Finley and brought in Michigan’s LaMar Morgan to fill Valai’s role.
The timing presents a challenge as Oklahoma prepares to begin spring practices in approximately one month, with the spring game scheduled for Saturday, April 18 at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
Murray’s Path to Kansas City
This move comes after Murray received interest from other programs in recent years, most notably Ohio State two years ago. Oklahoma responded by offering him a contract extension to remain on staff. However, the opportunity to coach in the NFL with a prestigious organization like the Kansas City Chiefs proved too appealing to pass up.
Murray had previously served as Arizona’s running backs coach in 2019 before returning to his alma mater in 2020.
The Chiefs’ New Addition
For Kansas City, acquiring Murray brings a coach with both elite playing experience and proven recruiting chops. His firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed at the highest level of professional football, combined with his six years of coaching experience, makes him a valuable addition to Andy Reid’s staff.
The Chiefs are looking to bounce back and return to playoff contention in 2026, and Murray’s expertise with running backs could prove instrumental in achieving that goal.
Looking Ahead
DeMarco Murray’s journey from Oklahoma legend to NFL star to college coach has now come full circle with his return to professional football. While Sooners fans will miss his recruiting prowess and connection to the program’s storied history, his move to the NFL represents a natural progression in his coaching career.
As Oklahoma searches for Murray’s replacement, the program will look to maintain the recruiting momentum he established while finding someone who can develop the talented running backs already on the roster and in the pipeline.
