In a recruiting victory that sent shockwaves through
the college football world, the Oklahoma Sooners have landed the commitment of the nation’s top-ranked 4-star linebacker, a physically imposing force standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 240 pounds. The decision marks a major win for head coach Brent Venables and his staff, as the Sooners beat out blue-blood programs such as Ohio State, Michigan, and Texas for one of the most coveted defensive players in the 2025 recruiting class.
Hailing from a powerhouse high school program, the elite linebacker had been a household name among scouts and analysts for over a year. Known for his rare combination of size, speed, and instinct, he dominated the high school circuit with sideline-to-sideline range, a high football IQ, and bone-crushing tackles that left offensive coordinators scrambling for answers. While he held offers from nearly every top program in the country, his final four came down to Oklahoma, Ohio State, Michigan, and Texas — each with a storied tradition of developing NFL-caliber linebackers.
What set Oklahoma apart? According to sources close to the recruitment, the Sooners’ relentless pursuit, the defensive pedigree of Coach Venables, and the opportunity to contribute early in a revamped defense played key roles in the decision. The linebacker cited his visit to Norman as a “game-changer,” praising the family atmosphere, elite facilities, and a defensive scheme tailor-made for his aggressive style of play.
“I felt the most comfortable at Oklahoma,” he said during his announcement. “Coach Venables has a proven track record of putting linebackers in the league, and I believe in what they’re building. It’s a place where I can grow as a player and a man.”
The commitment comes at a crucial time for Oklahoma as the program prepares to transition fully into SEC play. The addition of a game-changing linebacker helps bolster a defensive unit that will face stiff competition in the nation’s premier football conference. This commitment not only boosts the Sooners’ 2025 recruiting class rankings but also sends a strong message to rivals that Oklahoma is still a top-tier destination for elite talent.
Analysts have raved about the linebacker’s upside, with some calling him a future first-round draft pick if his development continues on the current trajectory. His rare frame and athleticism have drawn comparisons to former NFL stars like Anthony Barr and Isaiah Simmons. He excels not only in traditional run-stopping duties but also as a pass rusher and in coverage against tight ends and running backs a true three-down linebacker.
With this addition, Oklahoma’s defensive future looks brighter than ever. The Sooners are stacking elite prospects who fit their aggressive, fast-paced defensive identity, and this commitment serves as a cornerstone for what could be a top-5 national recruiting class. For Oklahoma fans, it’s a reason to celebrate. For their rivals especially in Columbus, Ann Arbor, and Austin it’s a bitter pill to swallow.
