Lightning Hires John Charles As QB Coach

Oregon Lightning Hire Former Atlanta Falcon & Portland State Hall of Fame QB John Charles as Quarterbacks Coach

REDMOND, Ore. (Feb. 1, 2026) — The Oregon Lightning are charging into the next chapter of championship football with a major addition to the coaching staff: John Charles, former Atlanta Falcon and Portland State Hall of Fame quarterback, has been hired as the team’s Quarterbacks Coach, bringing elite experience, proven development, and deep Central Oregon roots to the Lightning offense.

Chuck Jones, General Manager and Head Coach of the Oregon Lightning, says the move is a gamechanger for the organization.

“Coach Charles is the real deal,” said Jones. “His experience and leadership take this team to the next level. Last year we didn’t have a dedicated quarterbacks coach, and while Dalton finished at the top of the league, we know there’s another gear he can hit. Mechanics, fundamentals, consistency—those details are what separate good from great. John Charles is going to be huge in that process.”

The Lightning’s offense was one of the most dangerous in the league last season, and the addition of a full-time quarterback's coach signals the organization’s commitment to leveling up every detail—footwork, timing, reads, and precision—so the team can turn explosive talent into unstoppable execution.

Now a permanent resident of Central Oregon, Charles is equally fired up to join the Lightning and invest in the community he calls home.

“I’m excited to be part of the Oregon Lightning and to help take this offense to the next level,” said Charles. “This is a special organization with a strong mission, and I’m ready to get to work with these athletes and help them grow.”

Beyond the field, Charles is widely known as a developer of talent and a leader in youth impact. He is the founder of Air One Football Academy, a powerhouse training program that has helped hundreds of athletes earn college opportunities since 2012. He also leads The Academy for Prevention, Intervention and Recovery, recognized as one of Oregon’s top nonprofits dedicated to educating and serving youth across the state.

And yes—Lightning fans will also get to know another side of Coach Charles: the flavor.

Charles is the creator of Jon Jon’s BBQ Sauce, a fan-favorite line that’s earned a reputation as a must-try for anyone who loves great food and big personality.

With John Charles joining the staff, the Oregon Lightning are doubling down on development, discipline, and domination—on and off the turf.

Media inquiries / interview requests: Visit www.theoregonlightning.com

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