As Oregon begins its search for a new offensive coordinator, one name already rising to the top of the shortlist is a familiar one inside the building: Drew Mehringer. Currently serving as the Ducks’ tight ends coach and co-offensive coordinator, Mehringer is viewed internally as a strong candidate to take over full OC duties - and for good reason.
With Will Stein departing to take the head coaching job at Kentucky, head coach Dan Lanning now faces the challenge of maintaining the offensive momentum that’s helped Oregon become one of the most explosive teams in college football. Promoting Mehringer would offer something invaluable in moments like this: continuity.
Mehringer is the last remaining offensive assistant from Lanning’s original 2022 staff, and his fingerprints are already all over this offense. Under his guidance, Oregon has ranked in the top 10 nationally in scoring in three of the last four seasons - a testament not just to the system, but to the execution and player development happening behind the scenes.
And when it comes to player development, look no further than Oregon’s tight ends. Mehringer has turned that room into a factory for NFL-ready talent.
Terrance Ferguson was a second-round pick last year, and Kenyon Sadiq is generating serious first-round buzz ahead of this year’s draft. Sadiq has been a force this season, hauling in 40 catches for 490 yards and eight touchdowns.
Right behind him is Jamari Johnson, another rising star, with 23 catches for 320 yards and a score. These aren’t just tight ends blocking in the shadows - they’re integral pieces of Oregon’s high-powered passing attack.
Mehringer’s resume goes beyond just position coaching. He’s got playcalling experience, which is a key piece of the puzzle as Oregon looks to maintain its offensive identity.
Back in 2016, he served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Rutgers. He also coached quarterbacks at James Madison in 2014 and at New Mexico in 2021 - a role Oregon will need to fill with Stein’s departure.
That versatility and background in quarterback development could make him an even more appealing option, especially as the Ducks look to stabilize the offensive staff heading into a pivotal offseason.
And the future looks just as bright. Oregon is set to bring in its highest-rated tight end recruit ever - Kendre Harrison, a top-50 prospect nationally. With Mehringer at the helm, the Ducks would be well-positioned to keep that tight end pipeline flowing.
So while Oregon will undoubtedly explore its options, Mehringer offers a compelling mix of continuity, proven development, and experience. He knows the system, has earned the trust of the locker room, and has helped build one of the most dynamic offenses in the country. If Lanning decides to promote from within, Mehringer might just be the steady hand the Ducks need to keep flying high.