TUCSON, Ariz. - After days of speculation and anonymous reports, Arizona Athletics confirmed that football coach Kevin Sumlin hired former NFL star DeMarco Murray as running backs coach.
"DeMarco brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our running back room," Sumlin said in a statement. "That, with his attention to detail, passion for the game and passion for impacting others will make him a great addition. Our entire staff is excited for him to join our organization."
After the Dallas Cowboys chose him out of Oklahoma in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft, Murray became one of the most feared rushers in the league. He was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2014.
"I'm humbled to have the opportunity to start my coaching career with Coach Sumlin and the University of Arizona," Murray said in a statement. "My family and I are thrilled to become a part of the Tucson community, and I can't wait to get started. Bear Down!"
Murray's star dimmed when he moved to the Philadelphia Eages via free agency in 2015. He retired with the Tennessee Titans in 2017. He earned more than $25 million in his career.
This is Murray's first job as a coach.
The Wildcats, who will bring back franchise quarterback Khalil Tate, begin the 2019 season Aug. 24 at Hawaii.
