Alabama wide receivers coach JaMarcus Shephard agreed to a deal to become Oregon State’s next head football coach on Nov. 28.
“I’m honored to lead the Oregon State University football program and to join a community that cares so deeply about its student-athletes,” Shephard said in a statement.
Shephard arrived in Tuscaloosa from Washington as a part of head coach Kalen DeBoer’s staff. He produced three NFL receivers in his short time with Washington and looks like he has two more gearing up for the 2026 draft in Germie Bernard and Isaiah Horton.
While Shephard leaves an undeniable hole in the staff, Alabama players and staff were excited for him to get the opportunity. DeBoer told the media Sunday that the staff celebrated the milestone for Shephard on the Friday before the Iron Bowl.
“The J does stand for juice in JaMarcus,” star wide receiver Ryan Williams said. “He is full of energy, and he don’t need no coffee to start it.”
Coach Shephard will remain with Alabama through Saturday’s SEC Championship versus Georgia.
Shephard isn’t leaving Tuscaloosa empty handed. On Sunday, it was reported that Crimson Tide associate director of player personnel Eron Hodges would become the Beavers’ next general manager. Alabama’s assistant QB coach Mitch Dahlen is also set to become Oregon State’s next offensive coordinator and QBs coach.
It will not be an easy rebuild for Shephard in Corvallis. Oregon State finished 2025 a staggering 2-10 and 1-1 in Pac-12 play, losing four games by 10 or fewer points. It was the worst finish for the Beavers since 2018.
