The Oregon Ducks’ coaching staff is undergoing substantial changes as the spring football season prepares to commence. Carlos Locklyn, the running backs coach, has left Eugene to pursue other opportunities abroad.
According to a person familiar with the issue, Locklyn will become the Ohio State Buckeyes’ next running backs coach. During his two-year stint with the Ducks, Locklyn was instrumental in the development of key players like Bucky Irving, Noah Whittington, and Jordan James.
Locklyn’s move was initially reported by 247Sports and ESPN earlier on Monday.
Interestingly, Locklyn recently inked a contract extension with the Ducks, committing to stay in Eugene until 2026. However, the allure of a new chance at Ohio State, combined with a better wage package, motivated Locklyn to make the move.
Locklyn’s decision to join the Buckeyes comes after Tony Alford, Ohio State’s previous running backs coach, left to become the run-game coordinator for rival Michigan. Alford’s departure created a vacancy at Ohio State, which Locklyn will now fill.
Despite the Ducks’ expectation of having one of the nation’s most talented running back corps this season, including James, Whittington, Jayden Limar, and Jay Harris.
Locklyn’s departure creates a void.
However, his new position at Ohio State offers a bright chance. The Buckeyes have a powerful running back lineup, which includes notable Ole Miss transfer Quinshon Judkins, as well as TreVeyon Henderson and Miyan Williams.
As the Ducks move forward, the focus will be on how head coach Dan Lanning fills the void left by Locklyn. With spring ball due to begin on Tuesday, Oregon will likely look for a quick answer to fill the coaching vacancy.
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