Eli Drinkwitz and the Missouri Tigers are reloading their coaching staff with some experienced and high-upside additions, officially announcing four new hires on Wednesday. It’s a significant reshuffling in Columbia, one that signals the program’s continued push to elevate its standing in the SEC.
Let’s break down the new faces joining the Tigers’ sideline:
Garrett Riley is stepping in as quarterbacks coach, and this one’s going to turn some heads. Riley brings a high-profile résumé, having most recently served as Clemson’s offensive coordinator from 2023 to 2025.
Before that, he orchestrated explosive offenses at SMU and TCU - yes, that TCU team that made a College Football Playoff run. Riley is known for his quarterback development and ability to scheme passing attacks that stretch defenses thin.
For a Missouri program looking to keep its offense sharp and its quarterback room progressing, Riley’s addition is a big swing with serious upside.
Levorn “Chop” Harbin takes over the defensive line, and he brings SEC pedigree with him. Harbin spent the last five seasons at Tennessee under Josh Heupel, working primarily with outside linebackers.
That experience in the high-octane SEC East is valuable, especially for a Mizzou front that’s built a reputation for producing NFL-caliber talent. Harbin’s energy, recruiting chops, and defensive versatility should make him a strong fit in Columbia.
Alex Atkins is set to lead the tight ends group, though his coaching background leans heavily on the offensive line. He spent last season at LSU and the five years before that at Florida State, where he helped shape one of the more physical offensive fronts in the ACC. While he’ll be focusing on tight ends at Mizzou, Atkins’ O-line roots could add a gritty, physical edge to the position group - and don’t be surprised if his influence is felt in the run game design as well.
John Papuchis rounds out the new hires, coming on as special teams coordinator and defensive assistant. He’s no stranger to the college football grind, having spent several years at Florida State.
From 2020 to 2024, he handled special teams and defensive ends before shifting to linebackers in 2025. That kind of positional flexibility - along with his special teams acumen - gives Missouri a veteran presence who knows how to get the most out of his units.
Drinkwitz didn’t hold back in his praise for the new staff members, saying:
“We’re thrilled to add Alex, Chop, John and Garrett to our coaching staff.
All four bring a tremendous work ethic, are fantastic recruiters, have a deep understanding of the game and a strong ability to connect with our players. We’re excited to welcome them and their families to Columbia, and we are all ready to get to work.”
This isn’t just about filling vacancies - it’s about bringing in coaches with proven track records and strong recruiting ties, many of whom have operated at the highest levels of college football. Missouri is clearly looking to build on its recent momentum and make some noise in the SEC. With these additions, the Tigers are arming themselves with the kind of coaching talent that can help them do just that.