Oklahoma secures Michigan's defensive passing-game coordinator LaMar Morgan as new defensive backs coaching, bringing proven secondary development and tactical acumen to Norman's defense
According to reports, the University of Oklahoma is hiring LaMar Morgan as their new defensive backs coach, specifically focusing on cornerbacks. This hire comes on the heels of Jay Valai's departure to the NFL's Buffalo Bills, where he will serve as a defensive backs coach.
Morgan, 40, brings a wealth of experience to Norman after spending the last two seasons at Michigan as the defensive pass-game coordinator and defensive backs coach.
During his tenure in Ann Arbor, he played a key role in shaping a secondary that ranked respectably in national statistics. In 2025, Michigan's defense finished 15th in ESPN's defensive SP+ rankings, allowing just 6.5 yards per pass attempt (31st in FBS), securing 13 interceptions (34th), and defending 59 total passes (43rd).
Notably, Morgan mentored standout players like two-time All-Big Ten defensive back Zeke Berry, helping the Wolverines maintain a competitive edge in the pass-heavy Big Ten conference.
His contributions were evident in high-stakes games, including a September 2025 matchup against Oklahoma, where the Sooners emerged victorious 24-13. In that game, Michigan's secondary held Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer to 21-of-34 passing for 270 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, showcasing Morgan's tactical acumen firsthand to Venables.
Morgan's coaching journey is a testament to his steady rise through the ranks of college football. A native of Louisiana, he played safety at the University of Louisiana (then Louisiana-Lafayette) from 2003 to 2007, appearing in 40 games and earning recognition as a semifinalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy, awarded to the nation's top scholar-athlete in football.
After his playing days, Morgan transitioned into coaching, beginning as a graduate assistant at Vanderbilt in 2012-13 under James Franklin, where he assisted with the secondary and nickelbacks. He then honed his skills at smaller programs: coaching the secondary at Western Carolina (2014-15), safeties at Louisiana-Monroe (2016-17), and safeties at Houston in 2018.
Returning to his alma mater, Morgan served as cornerbacks coach at Louisiana from 2019-20 before elevating to defensive coordinator and secondary coach from 2022-23. His 2023 unit at Louisiana was particularly impressive, ranking in the top 35 nationally in yards per play allowed.
A brief stint as cornerbacks coach at Vanderbilt in 2021 under Clark Lea added SEC experience to his resume, making him a versatile coach familiar with high-level competition. Morgan's innovative approaches to pass defense and player development earned him a spot in the AFCA's 35 Under 35 list, highlighting emerging coaching talent.
He was highly coveted this offseason, drawing interest from top college programs and NFL teams, underscoring his reputation as a rising star in coaching circles.
The vacancy arose when Jay Valai, who had been Oklahoma's assistant head coach for defense, co-defensive coordinator, and pass game coordinator for four seasons, accepted a position with the Buffalo Bills earlier in February 2026.
Valai, a former NFL player himself, brought energy and recruiting prowess to the Sooners, helping develop talents in the secondary during Oklahoma's transition to the SEC.
His move to the pros represents a significant loss, but Venables moved swiftly to fill the role with Morgan, ensuring continuity. Valai's expertise in cornerbacks will now benefit the Bills' defense, potentially working with stars like Tre'Davious White in the competitive AFC East.
For Oklahoma, this hire aligns perfectly with Venables' defensive philosophy, which emphasizes aggressive, physical play in the secondary. Morgan will collaborate with returning safeties coach Brandon Hall, entering his fourth season, to form a dynamic duo overseeing the defensive backs.
The Sooners' secondary has shown promise but faced challenges in pass coverage during their 2025 campaign, finishing mid-pack in SEC pass efficiency defense. Morgan's track record suggests he can elevate this group.
Looking ahead, this addition comes at a pivotal time as Oklahoma gears up for a demanding schedule, including a rematch against Michigan on September 12, 2026, in Ann Arbor.
Venables, known for his defensive expertise from his Clemson days, could see Morgan as a key piece in pursuing an SEC title and a College Football Playoff berth..This coaching shuffle highlights the fluid nature of college football, where talent migrates between programs and leagues.
As spring practices approach, all eyes will be on how Morgan integrates into the Sooners' system and molds the next generation of Oklahoma defenders.