Alabama Reportedly Expected to Hire ACC Assistant as Tight Ends Coach

Richard Owens would fill the role vacated by Bryan Ellis, who switched to quarterbacks coach.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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According to reports, the Alabama Crimson Tide are expected to hire Richard Owens, an assistant coach from the ACC, to lead their tight ends unit in 2026. Owens previously served as the offensive line coach at Louisville for the past three seasons and has a track record of success, including seven All-ACC offensive line selections during his time with the Cardinals.

Why it matters

Alabama's tight end room is set to feature returning names like Kaleb Edwards and Marshall Pritchett, but the team needs to replace starter Josh Cuevas. Owens' hiring would provide the Crimson Tide with an experienced coach to develop their tight ends and continue the program's success at the position.

The details

If finalized, Owens would fill the role vacated by Bryan Ellis, who earlier this offseason switched roles on Alabama's coaching staff from tight ends to quarterbacks. Prior to Louisville, Owens also served in various roles as an assistant at places such as Georgia Southern and UAB.

  • Alabama is expected to hire Richard Owens as their new tight ends coach in 2026.

The players

Richard Owens

An assistant coach who is expected to be hired by Alabama to lead their tight ends unit in 2026. He previously served as the offensive line coach at Louisville for the past three seasons.

Bryan Ellis

The former Alabama tight ends coach who switched roles this offseason to become the Crimson Tide's quarterbacks coach.

Kaleb Edwards

A returning tight end for Alabama in 2026.

Marshall Pritchett

A returning tight end for Alabama in 2026.

Josh Cuevas

The starting tight end for Alabama in 2025 who the team needs to replace.

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What they’re saying

“Alabama is reportedly expected to hire Richard Owens as the team's next tight ends coach.”

— Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports Reporter (CBS Sports)

What’s next

If the hiring is finalized, Owens will join Alabama's coaching staff and begin working with the Crimson Tide's tight ends ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Alabama continues to build out its coaching staff with experienced assistants, this time targeting Richard Owens from the ACC to lead their tight ends unit and help develop the next generation of talent at the position.