UND Alum Chris Kuper to Join Eagles as Offensive Line Coach

Kuper, a former Broncos player, will reunite with Vikings OC Sean Mannion in Philadelphia.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Chris Kuper, a former offensive lineman for the University of North Dakota and the Denver Broncos, is set to be hired as the new offensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. Kuper, who previously served as the offensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings, will reunite with new Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, who was on the Vikings' roster during Kuper's time there.

Why it matters

Kuper's hiring represents an opportunity for the former UND standout to continue his NFL coaching career at a high level, joining a talented Eagles team that reached the Super Bowl last season. His experience working with Mannion in Minnesota could also help provide continuity for the Eagles' offense.

The details

Kuper, a native of Anchorage, Alaska, was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL Draft after a successful college career at UND, where he was a two-time North Central Conference Lineman of the Year. He went on to start 79 of 90 games played for the Broncos over an eight-year career, making the Pro Bowl in 2011 before retiring in 2014 due to injury.

  • Kuper was the offensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings from 2022 to 2025.
  • Kuper's contract with the Vikings was not renewed after the 2025 season.
  • Kuper is set to be hired as the new offensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2026.

The players

Chris Kuper

A former offensive lineman for the University of North Dakota and the Denver Broncos, who is set to be hired as the new offensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Sean Mannion

The new offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, who previously played quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings during Kuper's time as their offensive line coach.

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What’s next

Kuper's hiring is expected to be officially announced by the Philadelphia Eagles in the coming days.

The takeaway

Kuper's journey from a relatively unknown offensive lineman at UND to an NFL coaching position with the Eagles showcases the potential for talented players to transition into successful coaching careers, especially when they can leverage their prior relationships and experiences to find the right fit.