Iowa Hawkeyes Lose Running Backs Coach to the NFL

Omar Young departs Iowa to join the Las Vegas Raiders' coaching staff.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

The Iowa Hawkeyes are losing their running backs coach Omar Young, who is leaving the college ranks to join the Las Vegas Raiders' coaching staff under new head coach Klint Kubiak. Young spent just one season with the Hawkeyes, but made an immediate impact, helping develop a strong rushing attack led by running back Kamari Moulton.

Why it matters

Young's departure is a significant loss for the Hawkeyes, who will need to find a replacement to continue the momentum of their ground game. The Raiders, meanwhile, are hoping Young can help stabilize their offense and develop their young running back Ashton Jeanty as the team looks to turn things around under new leadership.

The details

During his lone season at Iowa, Young coached Moulton to a 170 carry, 878 yard, 5 touchdown campaign. He also incorporated other running backs like Jaziun Patterson, Xavier Williams, and Nathan McNeil into the offense. Prior to Iowa, Young had NFL experience as an offensive assistant with the Patriots, Browns, Packers, and Bears.

  • Omar Young joined the Iowa Hawkeyes' coaching staff in 2025.
  • Young is leaving Iowa to join the Las Vegas Raiders in 2026.

The players

Omar Young

The former Iowa Hawkeyes running backs coach who is departing to join the Las Vegas Raiders' coaching staff.

Klint Kubiak

The new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks during their Super Bowl winning season.

Kamari Moulton

The Iowa Hawkeyes' starting running back, who had a breakout season in 2025 under Young's coaching.

Ashton Jeanty

The second-year running back for the Las Vegas Raiders, who Young will be tasked with developing.

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What’s next

The Iowa Hawkeyes will need to quickly find a replacement for Omar Young to maintain the momentum of their rushing attack, while the Las Vegas Raiders will hope Young can help develop their young running back Ashton Jeanty as part of their efforts to turn the franchise around.

The takeaway

Omar Young's departure from the Iowa Hawkeyes to join the Las Vegas Raiders' coaching staff is a significant loss for the college program, but a potential gain for the NFL team as they look to Young's experience to help stabilize their offense and develop their young running back talent.