As the Oregon Ducks gear up for spring football, they've officially announced some significant updates to their 2026 coaching roster. This comes on the heels of a strong 13-2 season, and while much of the core staff remains, the Ducks are making strategic moves to fill key coordinator positions.
The departures of offensive coordinator Will Stein to Kentucky and defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi to Cal left big shoes to fill. But Oregon is ready, promoting from within to maintain continuity and capitalize on existing talent.
Drew Mehringer, previously the tight ends coach, will step into the role of offensive coordinator. Meanwhile, Chris Hampton, who has been leading the defensive backs, will now take on the responsibilities of defensive coordinator while continuing to oversee the safeties.
In a move that highlights Oregon's commitment to nurturing talent, Koa Ka'ai has been promoted to quarterbacks coach, and Jack Smith will take charge of the tight ends. These changes reflect a strategic elevation of support staffers into main assistant roles, ensuring a seamless transition.
The defensive side sees an intriguing addition with Rip Rowan, fresh from his stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, joining as a pass rush specialist. His experience is expected to bolster Oregon's defensive line strategy, adding a new layer to their already formidable defense.
The Ducks have also finalized their team of 17 assistant support coaches, bringing in fresh faces to round out a dynamic coaching staff. Here’s a closer look at the lineup:
- Head Coach: Dan Lanning
- Offensive Coordinator: Drew Mehringer
- Assistant Head Coach/Running Backs: Ra'Shaad Samples
- Wide Receivers/Pass Game Coordinator: Ross Douglas
- Quarterbacks: Koa Ka'ai
- Offensive Linemen: A'Lique Terry
- Tight Ends: Jack Smith
- Assistant Quarterbacks: Jay Johnson
- Assistant Offensive Line: Ryan Walk
- Assistant Wide Receivers: Donte Ellington
- Offensive Assistants: Mike Cavanaugh, Jaleel Kindell, AJ Traynor, Holden Whipple, Dane White, Ryan Switzer, George Moore, Justin Herron
- Defensive Coordinator/Safeties: Chris Hampton
- Edge: Kam Araghi
- Inside Linebackers: Brian Michalowski
- Defensive Line: Tony Tuioti
- Cornerbacks: Rashad Wadood
- Pass Rush Specialist/Assistant Defensive Line: Rip Rowan
- Defensive Assistants: Adam Barraza, Dante Bartee, Kyle Cogan, Michael Harrison, JR Reed, Jamie Silva, Jake Stone, Teivis Tuioti, Josh Simmons
With these strategic changes, the Ducks are poised to build on their success and tackle the upcoming season with renewed vigor. The blend of internal promotions and external expertise sets the stage for another exciting chapter in Oregon football.