As Oregon State prepares for the 2026 college football season, the Beavers' defensive staff is drawing attention for its blend of veteran experience and fresh recruiting energy.
A renewed defensive focus
At the helm of the defense is Mike MacIntyre, who returns to the role of defensive coordinator and safeties coach. Known for his ability to rebuild programs, MacIntyre brings a track record of turning struggling units into competitive forces.
Assisting him is Cort Dennison, the co‑defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Dennison's reputation as a recruiter precedes him, though his career has also been marked by past controversies that the university has worked to address.
Mark Hagen, the defensive line coach and run‑game coordinator, adds depth with a résumé that includes stops at Texas, Texas A&M, Purdue and Indiana. His extensive experience is expected to tighten the front line.
Joe Seumalo, a former Oregon State assistant under coach Mike Riley, now serves as assistant defensive line coach. His familiarity with the program and his recruiting network in the Pac‑12 are seen as assets for the Beavers.
Dan Rowe, the nickels coach, works closely with head coach JaMarcus Shephard, focusing on sub‑package schemes that have become increasingly important in modern defenses.
Ricky Brumfield, the special teams coordinator and corners coach, is tasked with revamping a unit that stumbled in 2025, costing the team crucial points. Brumfield's background at ACC programs such as Syracuse, Georgia Tech and Virginia equips him to bring a new perspective.
Adding to the special‑teams staff, former Beavers alum Josh Green joins as an assistant. Green holds the school record for average yards per punt (47.2) and will look to improve field position early in the season.