Dan Lanning and the Ducks get a massive win with the return of a crucial assistant coach for 2025
Oregon's coaching staff was very close to taking a big hit. Running backs coach Ra'shaad Samples, who has been linked to making the jump to the NFL, was firmly in the conversation for the Dallas Cowboys running backs coach position for Brian Schottenheimer's new staff. According to new reports, Samples turned down an offer, electing to […]
Oregon's coaching staff was very close to taking a big hit. Running backs coach Ra'shaad Samples, who has been linked to making the jump to the NFL, was firmly in the conversation for the Dallas Cowboys running backs coach position for Brian Schottenheimer's new staff.
According to new reports, Samples turned down an offer, electing to remain with Dan Lanning and the Ducks.
It's a major win for Lanning and the Ducks. Samples is a highly-regarded running backs coach, and the proof is in the production from the position in recent years. Bucky Irving was a prolific back for Oregon and had a huge rookie season this year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, rushing for 1,122 yards on 5.4 yards per carry, taking the lead back position away from Rachaad White.
Replacing Irving at Oregon was Jordan James, who went from 107 carries in a complementary role in 2023 to 233 carries for 1,267 yards and 15 touchdowns as the unquestioned lead back.
With James off to the NFL, keeping Samples in Eugene to work with transfer running back Makhi Hughes and the incoming recruits, like 2026 recruit Tradarian Ball, the No. 2 running back in the class, is a massive win for continuity.
The running back position is a staple in the Oregon offense, and Samples is a big reason why. Ducks fans should be thrilled that he's coming back.
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