Oregon State Football Kicks Off Spring Practice Under New Coach Shephard

First-year head coach JaMarcus Shephard outlines goals and expectations for Beavers' spring workouts

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Oregon State football opened its spring practice window on Tuesday, March 10, with new head coach JaMarcus Shephard leading the Beavers through their first workout of the offseason. Shephard, who was hired in December 2025, met with the media after practice to discuss his plans for the spring, the challenges of building a roster, and his coaching philosophy focused on developing players both physically and mentally.

Why it matters

Shephard takes over an Oregon State program that has struggled in recent seasons, failing to reach a bowl game in 2025. As a first-time head coach, Shephard faces the task of quickly installing his systems, evaluating the existing roster, and determining which areas need the most attention before the 2026 season kicks off.

The details

During the press conference, Shephard outlined his goals for spring practice, which include a full installation of the offense, defense and special teams, as well as a focus on developing the proper mindset and standards for the players. He praised the leadership of the team's unity council, which recently voted to include a new transfer player, and discussed the challenges of navigating the changing NCAA eligibility rules. Shephard also provided updates on the status of several key players, including quarterback Maalik Murphy and tight end Gabe Milbourne.

  • Oregon State opened spring practice on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
  • The Beavers will take a break for spring break before returning to the practice field.

The players

JaMarcus Shephard

The first-year head coach of the Oregon State football team, hired in December 2025 after previously serving as an assistant coach at several other programs.

Mike McIntyre

The defensive coordinator for the Oregon State football team, who brings extensive experience to Shephard's staff.

Maalik Murphy

The incumbent starting quarterback for the Oregon State Beavers, who Shephard praised for his leadership and commitment to the program during the coaching transition.

Gabe Milbourne

A tight end on the Oregon State roster who is awaiting a decision on his eligibility for a sixth year.

Dylan Layne

An Idaho transfer linebacker who was recently voted onto the Beavers' unity council by his teammates.

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What they’re saying

“There's no question (that) these young men have been met with love from me and my staff, and that's the key. They know without a shadow of a doubt that we love them.”

— JaMarcus Shephard, Head Coach (forestgrovenewstimes.com)

“I feel like I do a pretty good job of leaning on the people that I trust to help me find the right answers.”

— JaMarcus Shephard, Head Coach (forestgrovenewstimes.com)

“Never once did Maalik come in my office and even mention the idea of transferring, not once. He was a consistent leader all throughout the transition.”

— JaMarcus Shephard, Head Coach (forestgrovenewstimes.com)

What’s next

The judge in Gabe Milbourne's eligibility case is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks on whether the tight end will be granted a sixth year of eligibility to play for Oregon State.

The takeaway

Shephard's focus on building a tight-knit, competitive roster and instilling a championship mindset in the Oregon State players reflects his belief that the Beavers can quickly turn things around under his leadership. By leaning on experienced assistants like defensive coordinator Mike McIntyre, Shephard is positioning the program for success both in the short and long term.