Alabama reportedly expected to hire ACC assistant as tight ends coach

According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, the Alabama Crimson Tide are expected to hire Richard Owens as the team’s next tight ends coach.

If finalized, Owens would fill the role vacated by Bryan Ellis, who earlier this offseason switched roles on Alabama‘s coaching staff from tight ends to quarterbacks.

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Owens would come to Tuscaloosa after three seasons at Louisville where he has previously served as the Cardinals offensive line coach from 2023-25. Prior to Louisville, Owens also served in various roles as an assistant at places such as Georgia Southern and UAB, and has a past track record of success that included seven All-ACC offensive line selections while a member of the Cardinals staff.

Alabama’s 2026 tight end room is set to feature returning names such as Kaleb Edwards and Marshall Pritchett, but are also tasked with replacing starter Josh Cuevas.

Should this happen, Owens would become the third offensive assistant to join the Crimson Tide’s staff so far this offseason alongside Derrick Nix (wide receivers) and Adrian Klemm (offensive line).