With the spring practices underway, Kalen DeBoer looks to work and improve on the struggles that haunted them last season. One big issue was the run game, which the Crimson Tide struggled with throughout the season. As a solution, DeBoer hired former Louisville offensive line coach Richard Owens as the tight ends coach, whom he praised for more than one reason.

“Richard Owens possesses a diverse skillset and knowledge for the game that he has grown over time as both a player and coach.” Kalen DeBoer said. “His background will allow him to contribute to not only the success of our tight ends but also to our offense as a whole. He also has a familiarity with our staff and the Southeast Region that made him our top choice to fill this role.”

The tight ends coaching spot was left vacant after Bryan Ellis was promoted to the quarterbacks coach position. So, adding depth to the coaching staff was a priority for Kalen DeBoer. Naturally, Richard Owens was the name that popped up. After spending three seasons at Louisville, he now arrives at Tuscaloosa as an experienced assistant coach.

The move makes sense if he can strengthen the tight end position. Last season, Alabama struggled badly in the run game and lacked a consistent ground threat. That made the offense often one-dimensional and limited scoring opportunities for Alabama. Wide receiver Ryan Williams, in particular, had a difficult season and saw his production dip as the offense became one-dimensional. So how can Kalen DeBoer address that issue? By getting more out of the tight ends.

If the tight ends become reliable contributors, it would ease pressure on receivers like Williams and create more space for the receivers to make plays. So, this move is essentially hitting two birds with one stone for Kalen DeBoer.

With Owens’ background in coaching the offensive line, Kalen DeBoer can expect a physical and disciplined approach from his tight ends. He coached nine All-ACC offensive linemen during his time at Louisville. He also previously served as the Cardinals’ tight ends coach in 2018. Before his coaching career, he also played as a tight end at Louisville (1999 to 2003).

Alabama suffered a tight end injury-prone year in 2025. Players like Josh Cuevas, Danny Lewis, and Marshall Pritchett all got injured before the spring practice sessions ended. With Owens hired just in time for spring practice, Alabama may be able to avoid a repeat of last season.

Richard Owens promises results to head coach Kalen DeBoer and Alabama

Coaching in the SEC carries weight, and Richard Owens understands that. Accepting the opportunity, he shared his excitement about joining DeBoer’s staff.

“There’s no greater stage in college football than the SEC,” his official statement read. “I’m honored to join Coach DeBoer’s staff and work alongside a tremendous group of colleagues. I am going to pour everything I have into Alabama and uphold the standard of excellence here. Roll Tide.”

As he begins adjusting to his new program, it’s worth looking at the path that shaped Owens.

As a Louisville alumnus, he played tight end for the Cardinals from 1999 to 2003. Although he went undrafted in 2004, Owens carved out an NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings (2004–06), the then-St. Louis Rams (2007), and the New York Jets (2009). Between 2004 and 2009, he appeared in 53 games with seven starts, recording 17 receptions for 141 yards and one touchdown.