The Dallas Cowboys are making waves this offseason, not just with their coaching staff shake-up but by pulling a top-tier assistant coach straight from the college ranks.
In an aggressive move to bolster their offensive staff, Dallas has lured Oregon co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Junior Adams to the NFL, where he will now serve as the Cowboys’ wide receivers coach.
This hiring signals a strong commitment by new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who was recently promoted from offensive coordinator following Mike McCarthy’s departure. Schottenheimer is clearly looking to revamp the staff with fresh minds, and Adams’ track record at the collegiate level makes him a fascinating addition.
Adams, 45, has been a key piece in Oregon’s offensive success under Dan Lanning, helping the Ducks to a 13-0 regular season and a Big Ten Championship in their first year in the conference. His influence on player development is undeniable, having played a role in producing top-tier receivers, including former Washington standout Puka Nacua, who has become a rising star in the NFL with the Rams.
His journey through the college coaching ranks has been extensive, with stops at Eastern Washington, Boise State, Washington, and Western Kentucky before his tenure at Oregon. Now, he’s taking his talents to the professional level, where he’ll be tasked with getting the most out of Dallas’ receiving corps, which already boasts talent but could benefit from fresh coaching perspectives.
What does this mean for the Oregon Ducks?
Beyond his on-field coaching, Adams was a powerhouse on the recruiting trail. He was the primary recruiter for top talents such as Jurrion Dickey and Dakorien Moore, as well as tight end Kenyon Sadiq. His ability to attract elite talent has been a cornerstone of Oregon’s recent recruiting success.
With Adams’ departure, head coach Dan Lanning faces the challenge of filling a crucial role on the coaching staff. The wide receiver room, already anticipating a transitional phase with the exit of key players like Tez Johnson and Traeshon Holden, will now undergo further adjustments under new leadership.
However, the Ducks still have a promising group of returning players and incoming recruits, including Evan Stewart, Malik Benson, and the aforementioned Dickey and Moore.
