The Oklahoma Sooners’ 2025 recruiting class brings in a well-rounded group of players, addressing key areas of need and providing much-needed depth as the team enters its second year in the SEC. Though this is Oklahoma’s smallest recruiting class in the 21st century, it reflects a strategic approach to maintaining a competitive roster while balancing the limitations imposed by a young returning core. As head coach Brent Venables heads into a critical fourth season, this class will play a pivotal role in determining the program’s trajectory.
Quarterback
Quarterback recruiting was a rollercoaster this cycle. For over a year, Kevin Sperry was committed to OU, only to flip to Florida State in a surprising move. Similarly, in-state standout Jamarian Ficklin chose Utah, leaving a gap in the Sooners’ plans. However, new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle salvaged the situation by flipping Jett Niu, a previously committed Oklahoma State recruit, into OU’s fold. Niu’s addition is crucial given the uncertainty in the quarterback room, as Jackson Arnold has entered the transfer portal, and Michael Hawkins Jr.’s status remains undecided. With a young roster set for 2025, Niu will have the opportunity to develop behind either Hawkins or a transfer portal veteran. His arrival ensures the Sooners maintain long-term depth at one of the most critical positions on the field.
Running Back
The running back room is poised for an overhaul, and Tory Blaylock adds a valuable future option to DeMarco Murray’s unit. Blaylock, a highly coveted 4-star recruit, remained committed to the Sooners despite several challenges, including an offensive coordinator change and questions about Murray’s role on the coaching staff. With established backs like Jovantae Barnes, Taylor Tatum, Xavier Robinson, and Gavin Sawchuk possibly returning, the backfield could become overcrowded. However, roster turnover is inevitable, and Blaylock offers a glimpse into the future of OU’s ground game, bringing speed, vision, and versatility to an already talented position group.
Wide Receiver
Wide receiver recruiting saw a mix of wins and losses for OU this cycle. Despite losing Cortez Mills to Nebraska, the Sooners secured commitments from Emmanuel Choice and Elijah Thomas, two dynamic prospects with complementary skill sets. Choice provides consistency and reliability, while Thomas is a high-upside playmaker with the tools to become a game-changer in the SEC. The receiver room has undergone significant changes, but these new additions will help stabilize the group and provide Venables and his staff with valuable weapons for the future.
Tight End
The Sooners added just one player to their tight end room, a position group that struggled to meet expectations over the past two seasons. OU landed an in-state standout from Carl Albert High School, who brings a strong physical presence and the potential to grow into a key contributor. With Joe Jon Finley stepping back into a full-time tight end coaching role, this recruit will have the opportunity to develop under specialized guidance. While the tight end unit remains a question mark, this addition provides hope for renewed production at the position.
Offensive Line
Perhaps the crown jewel of the 2025 recruiting class is the offensive line group. Veteran coach Bill Bedenbaugh continues to cement his reputation as one of the best recruiters in the nation, bringing in what might be his most talented group since joining OU. Headlining the class is Darius Afalava, a dominant interior lineman with the potential to anchor the Sooners’ offensive front for years to come. Bedenbaugh’s recruits are expected to make an immediate impact, ensuring OU’s offensive line remains a strength as they adapt to the rigors of SEC competition.
Looking Ahead
Despite being small in size, this class addresses crucial gaps across the roster while maintaining flexibility for future additions through the transfer portal. With the SEC transition in full swing and the pressure mounting on Brent Venables, the performance and development of these recruits will be essential for the Sooners’ success. As the 2025 season approaches, this class represents not just a reinforcement of talent but also a statement of intent: Oklahoma is committed to competing at the highest level. The next step will be turning these promising signees into game-ready contributors who can make an impact on Saturdays.
The Oklahoma Sooners have made significant strides during the early signing period, securing commitments from several highly talented recruits. This class demonstrates the coaching staff’s focus on reinforcing key areas of the roster, especially on defense, as they look to build on past successes and address previous shortcomings. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Sooners’ impactful additions:
Defensive Line: Adding Size and Talent
- Alexander Shieldnight: A local prospect, Shieldnight is an athletic defensive end from Oklahoma who may not yet have the same star power as some of the Sooners’ other recruits but shows plenty of promise. He brings a high motor and potential for growth, making him a strong candidate to contribute to the defensive line rotation in the future.
- Trent Wilson: The headliner of the defensive line group, Wilson is a 4-star defensive tackle who was a major recruiting win for Oklahoma. His combination of size, strength, and quickness in the trenches makes him a potential game-changer. Wilson is expected to bring much-needed physicality to the defensive front, helping the Sooners compete against elite offensive lines in the Big 12 and beyond.
Linebackers: Strengthening the Core
- Marcus James: The Sooners landed Marcus James, a 3-star linebacker with versatility and potential. James joins the program at a critical time, as standout linebacker Danny Stutsman is headed to the NFL. With Stutsman’s departure leaving a leadership void, James has an opportunity to grow into a key role in the linebacking corps. His flexibility allows defensive coordinator Zac Alley and head coach Brent Venables to use him in a variety of schemes, making him a valuable addition to the second level of the defense.
Secondary: Revamping a Key Weakness
The Sooners made the secondary a priority during this recruiting cycle after struggling defensively in the 2024 season. Their efforts paid off, with five new defensive backs signing, including a mix of cornerbacks and safeties:
- Maliek Hawkins: A 4-star cornerback who brings athleticism and playmaking ability to the secondary. Hawkins is praised for his speed, agility, and ability to match up against top receivers. He is expected to compete for playing time early in his career.
- Trystan Haynes: Another 4-star cornerback, Haynes is a physical and competitive player hailing from Carl Albert High School. His toughness and football IQ make him a natural fit for the Sooners’ defense, and he joins a growing pipeline of talent from his high school to Oklahoma.
- Courtland Guillory: A long, athletic 4-star cornerback who adds depth and versatility to the defensive backfield. Guillory’s size and ability to play press coverage make him a valuable piece for cornerbacks coach Jay Valai to develop.
- Marcus Wimberly: A highly-touted safety prospect who joins the Sooners at a pivotal moment. With Billy Bowman leaving for the NFL, Wimberly will have an opportunity to step in and compete for significant playing time early in his career. Known for his instincts and tackling ability, Wimberly should be a key contributor in reshaping Oklahoma’s secondary.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
This recruiting class reflects Oklahoma’s commitment to building a more formidable defense, addressing several critical areas to position the team for long-term success. With the addition of versatile and high-upside players across the defensive line, linebacker corps, and secondary, the Sooners are laying the groundwork for a more competitive and balanced squad.
The focus on defense comes at a crucial time, as key players like Billy Bowman and Danny Stutsman move on to the NFL, leaving opportunities for new leaders to emerge. The 2025 season will likely see these young recruits stepping into roles that allow them to showcase their talent and growth under the guidance of Venables and his coaching staff.
Sooner fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about this incoming group. The combination of in-state stars, highly-rated national recruits, and under-the-radar players with strong potential ensures that Oklahoma will continue to build momentum as they aim to compete at the highest level in college football.
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