Ex-Nevada, Oklahoma Star Joins NFL Coaching Staff
DeMarco Murray, a former star running back, is set to join the NFL coaching ranks. Reports indicate that he will take a position on Andy Reid’s staff with the Kansas City Chiefs as the running backs coach. This move marks Murray’s transition from college football to the professional level.
From High School Star to NFL Coach
Born in Las Vegas, Nevada, Murray made a name for himself at Bishop Gorman High School. There, he led the team to three conference championships and earned all-conference honors for three consecutive years. In his senior season alone, he rushed for 1,947 yards and scored 27 touchdowns. Additionally, he amassed 624 receiving yards and contributed seven touchdowns, securing all-state recognition and the 2005 Sunset Region Offensive Player of the Year title.
College Achievements at Oklahoma
Murray continued his football career at the University of Oklahoma after receiving numerous scholarship offers from prestigious programs. During his time with the Sooners, he became a standout player, achieving over 1,000 rushing yards in two different seasons and another year with over 1,000 total yards from scrimmage. By the time he left the program, he had set multiple records:
- Total touchdowns: 50
- Rushing yards: 3,685
- Receiving touchdowns: 13
- All-purpose yards: 4,200
- Kickoff return average: Best in his position
NFL Career Highlights
Murray was selected in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He quickly made an impact, rushing for nearly 900 yards in his rookie season. Over seven seasons in the NFL, he played for the Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Tennessee Titans, totaling:
- 99 games played
- 1,604 rushing yards
- 49 rushing touchdowns
His pinnacle season came in 2014 when he achieved a remarkable 1,845 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, earning him three Pro Bowl selections and the title of NFL Offensive Player of the Year.
Coaching Experience
After retiring from professional play, Murray began his coaching career at the University of Arizona in 2019. He then joined the Oklahoma coaching staff as running backs coach in 2020, where he oversaw a talented group of players.
Now, with his appointment to the Chiefs, Murray hopes to bring his extensive knowledge and experience to NFL players. His addition comes after the Chiefs recently reinstated Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator.