According to a rumor, DeMarco Murray is anticipated to remain with OU football following his pursuit by Penn State.

The world of college football is constantly filled with speculation, rumors, and potential coaching shifts, and as we approach the 2025 season, one of the most intriguing developments is the future of DeMarco Murray within the Oklahoma Sooners football program. Murray, a former Heisman Trophy finalist and one of the most celebrated running backs in Oklahoma’s storied history, has made an indelible mark on the program as the running backs coach. In recent months, rumors have circulated suggesting that Penn State University has expressed interest in bringing Murray aboard as part of their coaching staff. However, according to various sources, it appears that the Sooners’ standout assistant coach is poised to stay put in Norman, at least for the time being.

This news comes amidst growing speculation regarding Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts, the emergence of future star running backs, and the overall trajectory of the team under head coach Brent Venables. Murray’s impact on the Sooners’ offense cannot be overstated. As the running backs coach, he has helped transform Oklahoma’s ground game and has played a significant role in the development of several key players. His retention is seen as crucial for the program’s continued success, both in recruiting and on the field.

DeMarco Murray’s Journey to Oklahoma

Before delving into the rumor mill, it’s important to understand the context of Murray’s career. Murray, a former star running back at Oklahoma, made an immediate impact during his time with the Sooners in the early 2010s. He was a crucial part of the team during the 2008-2010 seasons, eventually earning the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s top running back in 2010. His success at Oklahoma was only amplified in the NFL, where he went on to have an outstanding career with the Dallas Cowboys and later with the Tennessee Titans.

After retiring from playing, Murray returned to Oklahoma in 2017 to join the football staff as a running backs coach. His hiring was met with excitement, as many felt that his experience as an elite player would translate into developing the next generation of Sooners’ running backs. Throughout his tenure, Murray has helped recruit and coach some of the top running back prospects in the nation, including players like Kennedy Brooks, Rhamondre Stevenson, and T.J. Pledger.

Murray’s ability to teach technique, motivate his players, and integrate them into a dynamic offense has earned him significant respect across college football. As a coach, he has been lauded for his commitment to developing running backs who can excel both in traditional power running situations and in pass-catching roles. Under Murray’s guidance, the Sooners’ running back corps has become one of the most dynamic and feared in college football.

Penn State’s Interest in DeMarco Murray

Rumors began to surface earlier this year that Penn State University, under head coach James Franklin, had been pursuing Murray to join their coaching staff. The speculation grew as Penn State looked to bolster its offensive coaching staff and improve its run game. Given Murray’s pedigree as both a player and coach, it made sense that Franklin would have interest in someone of his caliber.

Penn State has had a strong program under Franklin but has struggled at times to fully capitalize on its talent, particularly in the running game. The Nittany Lions have produced some strong individual backs, but their offensive attack has occasionally lacked the consistency and explosiveness that has been a hallmark of programs like Oklahoma. By targeting Murray, Penn State was looking to add a coach with both the experience and ability to develop high-level running backs and establish a more dynamic offense.

However, according to insiders and sources close to the Oklahoma program, Murray has shown little interest in leaving Norman. Even though the pursuit from Penn State was flattering, it appears that Murray is committed to continuing his work with the Sooners. His decision to stay with Oklahoma, at least for the time being, is significant for several reasons.

Murray’s Influence on Oklahoma’s Running Backs

Murray’s ability to develop running backs has been one of the driving forces behind Oklahoma’s offensive success. Over the years, Oklahoma has been known for producing some of the most explosive and dynamic running backs in college football, and Murray has played a key role in that legacy. Since joining the coaching staff, Murray has worked with several future NFL talents and has helped them achieve tremendous success in Norman.

One of the most notable examples of Murray’s influence is Kennedy Brooks, who has been one of the top running backs in the country during his time at Oklahoma. Under Murray’s tutelage, Brooks developed into a highly productive and consistent back, earning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2019. Brooks was a key figure in the Sooners’ offense and became a household name in college football.

Additionally, Murray’s work with Rhamondre Stevenson, who was drafted by the New England Patriots, helped the talented back make an immediate impact in the NFL. Stevenson had a breakout season in 2020, which was a testament to the work Murray did with him to improve his skills in both the run and pass game.

Murray’s coaching philosophy centers around the development of well-rounded backs who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. He emphasizes vision, ball security, footwork, and pass-catching ability—all critical skills for running backs in today’s fast-paced, pass-heavy college football environment. His ability to develop these skills and his focus on maximizing a player’s potential have made him one of the most respected running back coaches in the nation.

The Impact of Murray’s Retention on Recruiting

Recruiting is a key element of any successful college football program, and Murray’s presence on Oklahoma’s staff has been invaluable in attracting top-tier talent. The Sooners’ recruitment of running backs has been one of the most successful in the country, with players from across the nation wanting to play under a coach with Murray’s credentials.

Oklahoma’s ability to recruit and develop top talent at the running back position is directly tied to Murray’s reputation. His presence on the recruiting trail is a huge asset for the program. Murray’s experience, both as a player and as a coach, gives him credibility and respect in the eyes of recruits. High school players who grew up watching Murray’s NFL career are eager to learn from him, and his coaching style has become a major selling point for recruits considering Oklahoma.

As the Sooners continue to build their roster, especially in an era where the transfer portal is becoming increasingly important, Murray’s retention is vital. He plays an instrumental role in the recruitment of top running back prospects, and losing him to another program could have a ripple effect in recruiting.

Oklahoma’s Coaching Continuity Under Venables

One of the main reasons DeMarco Murray is expected to stay with Oklahoma is the stability and direction provided by head coach Brent Venables. Since taking over the program in 2022, Venables has focused on building a strong, cohesive coaching staff that emphasizes both development and continuity. As a defensive-minded coach, Venables understands the importance of having a strong offensive staff to complement his defensive efforts, and Murray has been an integral part of that offensive strategy.

Venables’ leadership and vision for the program seem to have resonated with Murray, and the two have worked well together in the pursuit of championship-level success. Venables has consistently made it clear that he values his coaching staff and aims to keep the core group intact, which includes Murray. By remaining with the Sooners, Murray can continue to work with Venables, build on the momentum the program has gained, and remain an integral part of the team’s long-term success.

What’s Next for DeMarco Murray and the Oklahoma Sooners?

Despite the ongoing rumors and speculation about Penn State’s pursuit of DeMarco Murray, it now seems increasingly likely that he will remain at Oklahoma for the foreseeable future. With his deep ties to the program, his impressive track record of developing elite running backs, and his relationship with Venables and the rest of the coaching staff, it’s clear that Murray is in a good place at Oklahoma.

In the coming years, Murray will continue to play a pivotal role in the success of Oklahoma’s offense. As the Sooners look to return to prominence in the SEC and continue to recruit at a high level, Murray’s coaching will be instrumental in ensuring that the program remains competitive on the national stage.

For now, though, it seems that DeMarco Murray is committed to the Oklahoma Sooners—ensuring that the program’s running back legacy remains in good hands as it heads into the future.