Two Weeks In, JaMarcus Shephard Starts Putting His Stamp on Oregon State Football
It’s only been two weeks since JaMarcus Shephard was introduced as Oregon State’s new head football coach, but the early signs of his vision are already starting to take shape. And the biggest question fans have had since Day 1-what will his staff look like?-is finally starting to get some answers.
Shephard has begun assembling his coaching team, and while there are still some key hires left to be made, the early returns offer a glimpse into how he plans to build this next chapter in Corvallis.
Building the Foundation
Shephard’s first confirmed hire is a familiar face: Bryan Glover, who served as an offensive analyst at Alabama. Glover is expected to take on a role with Oregon State’s offensive staff. It’s a move that speaks to Shephard’s desire for cohesion-bringing in someone he trusts, someone who understands his offensive philosophy from their time together in Tuscaloosa.
While Glover’s exact title hasn't been announced yet, his presence adds an early layer of familiarity and continuity to a program in transition. It also hints at the kind of offense Shephard might want to run-fast, aggressive, and rooted in the principles that made Alabama’s units so dangerous.
Familiar Names, Fresh Roles
Another notable addition is former Oregon State player and assistant Kefense Hynson, who is expected to return to the program. Hynson previously coached wide receivers under Jonathan Smith and is well-respected within the OSU community. His return would bring a valuable blend of continuity and recruiting familiarity, especially in the Pacific Northwest.
Shephard has also brought back Blue Adams, a former defensive backs coach at Oregon State, to rejoin the Beavers’ staff. Adams is known for his energy, recruiting chops, and ability to connect with players-traits that align well with Shephard’s player-first approach.
The early hires suggest Shephard is striking a balance between bringing in trusted colleagues and keeping strong ties to the program’s recent past.
Recruiting and Culture Go Hand-in-Hand
In his introductory press conference, Shephard emphasized the importance of building relationships and maintaining a strong culture. That message is already being reflected in the way he’s constructing his staff.
He’s targeting coaches who not only understand the X’s and O’s but also know how to connect with players, recruit effectively, and represent the program with pride. It’s not just about finding great play-callers-it’s about building a cohesive, driven staff that can navigate the challenges of a shifting college football landscape.
Still Work to Do
While these early hires are promising, Shephard still has several key positions to fill-including defensive coordinator, offensive coordinator, and strength and conditioning coach. Those decisions will be crucial in shaping the identity of this new-look Oregon State squad.
There’s also the question of how many current staffers from the previous regime might be retained. Some, like interim head coach Kefense Hynson, have deep roots in the program and could provide valuable continuity.
A Program in Transition, But Not Starting from Scratch
Shephard inherits a team that was competitive in the Pac-12 and has a strong foundation of talent. But with the conference in flux and player movement more common than ever, this is a pivotal offseason for Oregon State.
The early moves suggest Shephard understands the urgency. He’s not waiting around. He’s building a staff that can recruit, develop, and compete-now.
And while we’re still in the early stages of his tenure, one thing is already clear: JaMarcus Shephard has a plan, and he’s wasting no time putting it into motion.
Stay tuned. The Beavers’ next chapter is being written-and it’s starting with purpose.