The Oklahoma Sooners football team is poised for a strong 2026 season, following a successful turnaround in 2025. After a 10-3 record and College Football Playoff appearance, theyve added 15 players from the transfer portal, focusing on offense. The wide receiver group, led by star Isaiah Sategna, has been bolstered by transfers Trell Harris, Parker Livingstone, and Mackenzie Alleyne. The tight end room, previously reliant on Jaren Kanak, has been revamped with NFL legend Jason Witten as coach and new signees Hayden Hansen, Rocky Beers, and Jack Van Dorselaer. The cornerback position remains strong with experienced players Courtland Guillory and Eli Bowen, and added depth from Dakoda Fields and Prince Ijioma. Fans are excited about another playoff run, building on last years momentum in the SEC.

The Oklahoma Sooners are intensifying their pursuit of three-star quarterback Jamison Roberts from the 2027 recruiting class. Roberts, a six-foot-three, one-hundred-ninety-pound prospect from Saraland High School in Alabama, is ranked as the fifty-second best quarterback nationally and the twenty-second overall player in his state by On3. The Sooners have been actively courting Roberts, with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle recently visiting him and head coach Brent Venables set to do the same next week. Roberts has already visited Norman and plans a return trip soon. With the loss of backup quarterback Michael Hawkins Junior to the transfer portal, Roberts is now the top priority for the Sooners, positioning them strongly for the future.

Oklahoma Sooners Football Program Undergoes Leadership Changes: Roger Denny Potentially New VP and Director of Athletics, Jerry Schmidt Shifts to Chief of Staff, James Dobson Takes Over Strength and Conditioning

Oklahoma Appoints New Athletic Director: Roger Denny Takes Helm Oklahoma has named Roger Denny as its new athletic director, replacing longtime leader Joe Castiglione. Denny, currently deputy director of athletics and chief operating officer at the University of Illinois, was chosen after a search process. The move signals a new era for Sooner athletics amidst significant changes in college sports. University President Joseph Harroz Jr. praised Dennys leadership skills and background in law, highlighting his ability to navigate complex challenges and opportunities. Denny, who was a finalist for the Missouri State athletic director job in 2024, expressed his excitement about prioritizing student-athletes and chasing national titles. With former AT&T chief executive Randall Stephenson staying on as chair and special advisor, Oklahoma looks set to build on its proud legacy.

Oklahoma Sooners Athletics Embarks on New Era: Roger Denny Tipped for Athletic Director Role The University of Oklahoma is on the brink of appointing Roger Denny, currently deputy athletic director at Illinois, as their new athletic director. Dennys potential appointment comes after Joe Castigliones retirement announcement, and hes already interviewed twice on campus. This transition is seen as smooth, given Castigliones legacy and Dennys experience from a Big Ten rival. The football team, despite a playoff loss, remains competitive, while basketball seeks a turnaround. Dennys appointment could help steady the ship across sports, especially as March Madness approaches and football prepares for the next season.

Schmidt, the renowned Oklahoma strength coach, transitions to chief of staff, passing duties to Dobson. Schmidts extensive experience, including six national championship games and seven Heisman winners, earns him praise for his detail-oriented approach. Dobson, with a strong resume, takes over, ensuring continuity in the winning culture.

OU Football: Schmidt Moves to Chief of Staff, Dobson Takes Over Strength

Oklahoma Athletic Director Search: Roger Denny, Illinois Deputy AD, in Running for Sooners Top Job

ESPNs Scott Van Pelt commends Oklahoma Sooners progress under Coach Brent Venables, highlighting their 2025 seasons ten wins and three losses, College Football Playoff berth, and deserving playoff appearance. Despite fan anticipation for a national title, Van Pelt emphasizes the need for patience, acknowledging the teams zero wins in the playoff and quarter-century title drought. He identifies the real challenge as advancing past the opening round and believes the Sooners are among the teams capable of achieving this with strategic planning, leaving fans hopeful for a long-awaited breakthrough.

Despite a standout 2025 season, Oklahoma Sooners top players were snubbed by ESPNs top 100 list. With a strong defense and clutch offense, the team returns plenty of talent for 2026, aiming to prove doubters wrong and secure another playoff spot.

Oklahoma Sooners fans are eager for the 2026 season, despite a disappointing 2025. The team boasts elite talent, including defensive lineman David Stone, who led the nations sixth-ranked defense. With Stone and other standouts returning, the Sooners are poised for a stronger run in 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners Tight End Position Undergoes Major Overhaul for 2026 Season The Oklahoma Sooners tight end position has undergone a significant transformation ahead of the 2026 season, following a series of departures and new additions. Key players like Jaren Kanak, Kaden Helms, Will Huggins, and Carson Kent have left the team, making way for fresh talent. The Sooners have brought in Hayden Hansen from Florida, Rocky Beers from the Rams, and Jack Van Dorselaer from Tennessee, along with signees Ryder Mix and Tyler Ruxer. The most notable change is the hiring of NFL legend Jason Witten as the new coach, who quickly secured Van Dorselaers commitment. Last season, the tight end group struggled, with Kanak leading the team in receptions and yards but no touchdowns. Hansen, a six-foot-seven, 269-pound transfer, is expected to start, having caught 30 passes for 254 yards and two scores at Florida. Beers, the brother of OU womens basketball star Raegan Beers, had 31 catches for 388 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Beers and Van Dorselaer, a true freshman last year with five catches and a score, are expected to see plenty of action behind Hansen. Three holdovers, including Kade McIntyre, will also contribute to the depth chart. The new-look tight end group is poised to challenge SEC defenses and enhance the Sooners passing game in the 2026 season.

University of Oklahoma hires Roger Denny as new athletic director, bringing experience from Big Ten operations and a focus on fundraising, revenue growth, and facility upgrades. Denny starts immediately, aiming to build on Sooners legacy while tackling new challenges in the SEC era.

Oklahomas run game has been on a downward trend, dropping from 219.4 yards per game in 2022 to a dismal 118.5 in 2025. Despite high-profile portal additions like Jaydn Ott and Taylor Tatum, they struggled, with Ott managing just 68 yards and Tatum transferring to Michigan. Sophomore Xavier Robinson and freshman Tory Blaylock stepped up, combining for 901 yards and 8 TDs. This offseason, the Sooners added Lloyd Avant and Jonathan Hatton Jr., projecting Robinson as the starter, Blaylock as backup, and Avant and Hatton in reserve. The run games resurgence is crucial for Oklahomas continued success.

Oklahomas football team has assembled a solid transfer class for next season, focusing on proven fits rather than massive overhauls. The team has signed fifteen players, fewer than last years twenty-two, to rebuild after losing twenty-four to the portal. The wide receivers stand out as a smart upgrade, with three solid pickups like Trell Harris from Virginia and Parker Livingstone from Texas. On tight end, theyre bringing in producers like Hayden Hansen from Florida and Rocky Beers from Colorado State. Defensively, Michigan linebacker Cole Sullivan brings valuable experience. The team is equipped for another run at the playoffs without the panic buys.

Oklahoma Sooners: From Unranked to Top Ten in a Year College football fans, get ready for a surprising turn of events! The Oklahoma Sooners, who were once outside the top twenty just a year ago, are now receiving serious top-ten love from experts for the 2026 season. With major outlets like On3, USA Today, FanSided, Sporting News, CBS Sports, and Athlon Sports ranking them in the top ten, its clear that the Sooners are on an upward trajectory. Even FOX Sports, which placed them at number fourteen, expects an SEC title push. This is a stark contrast to last years skepticism, and it looks like the Sooners are primed for a breakout campaign.

NFL Draft Spotlight: Oklahomas 2025 Stars Ready to Shine - The NFL Draft is set to kick off in Pittsburgh, and Oklahomas top players are ready to make their mark. Defensive end R Mason Thomas, wide receiver Deion Burks, running back Jaydn Ott, safety Robert Spears-Jennings, defensive tackle Gracen Halton, and tight end Jaren Kanak are all poised for success, with Thomas and Burks particularly standing out as potential first or second-round picks.

Former Oklahoma wide receiver Jayden Gibson, dealing with a knee injury and off-field issues, was arrested for misdemeanor domestic battery in Las Vegas. Despite his potential return, he was released from the Sooners and later signed with South Carolina. This incident sparks debate on accountability and second chances in college football.

Michigan secures top RB recruit Taylor Tatum from Oklahoma, but hell start at safety, not offense. Tatum, originally a top-fifty prospect, rushed for 278 yards and 3 TDs as a freshman. A crowded backfield in Norman led him to the transfer portal. Hell continue his dual-sport career in Ann Arbor, starting at safety.

On3s top one hundred college football players list for 2026 features four Oklahoma Sooners, but its the snubs that are causing a stir. Defensive tackle David Stone made the list, but his teammate Jayden Jackson, who had a similar season, did not. Quarterback John Mateer, who was ranked 65th before injuries, and kicker Tate Sandell, the Lou Groza Award winner, were also overlooked. These omissions have sparked debates about position bias and the lists credibility.

Former Oklahoma wide receiver Jayden Gibson, arrested on domestic violence charges in May, joins South Carolina Gamecocks amidst controversy. Despite his talent, Gibsons off-field issues and injuries have raised questions about his future with the team.

Oklahoma Sooners offensive line rebuilds with portal additions, featuring versatile tackle EMarion Harris, and promising young talent like Michael Fasusi, Ryan Fodje, and Eddy Pierre-Louis, ensuring a stronger line for the upcoming season.

Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Depth Chart: A Balanced Blend of Experience and New Talent The Oklahoma Sooners have finalized their 2026 depth chart, following a period of transfer portal activity. The team lost 28 players but retained key starters and added 16 newcomers. The offense features John Mateer at quarterback, with Bowe Bentley and Whitt Newbauer as backups. Running backs Xavier Robinson and Tory Blaylock form a strong duo, while Isaiah Sategna leads a revamped receiving corps. The offensive line returns four starters, with EMarion Harris at right tackle. On defense, David Stone and Jayden Jackson anchor the interior line, joined by fresh faces like Bishop Thomas. Cole Sullivan, a Michigan transfer, joins Kip Lewis at linebacker. Peyton Bowen and Courtland Guillory are staples in the secondary. The team avoided major losses and strategically used the transfer portal, creating competition and setting up favorable rotations. This balanced lineup positions the Sooners for a competitive 2026 season.

Oklahoma Appoints New Athletic Director: Roger Denny Takes Over from Legendary Joe Castiglione

The University of Oklahoma has appointed Roger Denny as their new athletic director, marking a significant shift towards a business-focused approach in college football. Denny, a former law partner with a strong background in corporate finance and tax, joins from the University of Illinois, where he played a key role in securing a $100 million donation and launching their NIL collective. This move underscores the evolving landscape of college sports, with revenue sharing, player wages, and complex contracts now requiring leaders with a keen understanding of the business side.

Oklahoma Sooners Set to Appoint New Athletic Director: Roger Denny Eyed for Top Role The Oklahoma Sooners are on the verge of naming Roger Denny, deputy athletic director at Illinois, as their new athletic director, replacing the legendary Joe Castiglione. Denny, a former lawyer, has made a significant impact at Illinois since joining in 2021 and is expected to lead the Sooners into their new era in the SEC.

Oklahoma Sooners offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle is targeting 2027 quarterback Jamison Roberts, a consensus three-star recruit from Saraland High School in Alabama. Roberts, ranked as the twenty-fifth best quarterback and three hundred seventieth overall, has received offers from schools like Auburn, Baylor, and Duke. Last season, Roberts led his team to a thirteen-and-one record, passing for thirty-seven touchdowns and rushing for twenty-one more. Arbuckles successful recruitment of Bowe Bentley, who was unrated when offered, has eyes on Roberts to see if he follows a similar path.

The Oklahoma Sooners have made a significant impact in the transfer portal, bolstering their roster with key offensive additions following a strong College Football Playoff run in 2025. Standout among these is offensive tackle EMarion Harris from Arkansas, who brings valuable SEC experience and a proven track record to the Sooners line. With one year of eligibility remaining, Harris is expected to contribute at right tackle or guard, enhancing the teams offensive capabilities in 2026.

In the high-pressure world of Oklahoma Sooners quarterbacks, five-star recruit Jackson Arnold struggled, transferring twice before finding success at UNLV. Meanwhile, backup Brendan Hawkins stayed loyal, eventually transferring to West Virginia. John Mateer stepped up, handling pressure better and securing a College Football Playoff spot. Oklahoma now has stability with Mateers return, learning hard lessons from past quarterbacks to set up future success.

Despite the chilly weather in Norman, Oklahoma Sooners football coaches are actively recruiting top prospects for the class of 2027. Head coach Brent Venables and his staff visited California, meeting with wide receiver Quentin Hale, cornerback JuJu Johnson, and commit Elija Harmon. Offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle dined with Jamison Roberts, while defensive ends coach Miguel Chavis celebrated Samuel Nelsons birthday and visited Krew Jones. Running backs coach DeMarco Murray checked in on Lathan Whisenton. Prospects expressed gratitude on social media, and the Sooners extended offers to the class of 2028, including Kameron McGee, Keaton Fields, Ca’Ron Williams, and Logan Lokey.

John Mateers final year at Oklahoma has provided a glimmer of hope at quarterback, with Jamison Roberts emerging as the top target for the class of 2027. Roberts, a six-foot-three standout from Saraland High School, boasts impressive stats, including 37 touchdowns, a 73% completion rate, and just 5 interceptions last season. He also showcased his dual-threat skills with 641 rushing yards and 21 scores. Roberts has developed a strong bond with the Oklahoma coaching staff, even having a group chat called Jameson to OU. Auburn, under new coach Alex Golesh, is also in the running, with an edge through Roberts former Saraland teammate, wide receiver DeShawn Spencer, who is already committed there. The quarterback battle is heating up, with Roberts set to visit Oklahoma for Junior Day on March 7th.

Jaylen Scott, a top-ranked safety from Mobile, Alabama, is set to visit Oklahoma on March 7th, adding to his list of powerhouse offers. Despite a tumultuous recruitment, Scotts impressive junior year stats and Oklahomas strong 2025 season make them a strong contender. With Oklahoma leading the nation in 2027 commits and Scott hinting at a top schools list, this visit could solidify their position in the secondary.

Oklahomas wide receiver room undergoes a significant transformation, with Isaiah Sategna as the lone returning star. Sategna, who transferred from Arkansas, had a breakout year with 67 catches, 965 yards, and 8 TDs. The team lost several key players to the transfer portal, but gained power-conference talent like Trell Harris from Virginia and Parker Livingstone from Texas. The new additions, along with returners and freshmen, form a deep and dynamic receiving corps, poised to make big plays in Ben Arbuckles system.

Four former Oklahoma Sooners, including edge rusher Nik Bonitto and wide receiver Marvin Mims, are set to face off in the AFC Championship Game, with at least one poised to secure a spot in Super Bowl LVI. Bonitto, a Pro Bowler, and Mims, league leader in punt return yards, are key contributors to their respective teams, the Denver Broncos and New England Patriots. The Sooners influence on these players, honed during their college days, is evident in their current success. The game promises an exciting matchup, with former teammate Rhamondre Stevenson also playing for the Patriots.

Roger Denny, a seasoned legal professional with nearly fifteen years of experience, has been appointed as the new athletic director at the University of Oklahoma. Denny, who previously served as deputy athletic director and chief operating officer at Illinois, is praised for his visionary leadership and tireless work ethic. He succeeds Joe Castiglione, who will now serve as athletic director emeritus. Dennys appointment has been met with enthusiasm from coaches, staff, and fans, who anticipate his legal expertise and strategic thinking will help navigate the evolving landscape of college sports.

OUs New Athletic Director: A Modern Fit for College Sports Evolving Landscape The University of Oklahoma surprised fans by hiring Roger Denny as their new athletic director, replacing Joe Castiglione. Denny, a former attorney with no traditional athletic director experience, brings fresh eyes to the job. Hes been at Illinois since 2021, handling football operations and business sides. Dennys modern perspective aligns with the changing world of college sports, where football programs run like front offices, athletes get paid through name, image, and likeness deals, and coaching contracts hit huge numbers.

Rhamondre Stevenson, former Oklahoma Sooner, leads Patriots to Super Bowl with a dominant performance against the Broncos. Stevensons impressive playoff run continues, but he faces a tough challenge against the Seahawks stout run defense in the upcoming game.

Joe Mussatto from The Oklahoman presents an All-Sooners transfer team, highlighting former Oklahoma players who thrived elsewhere. Quarterback Chandler Morris led Virginia to the ACC title game, while Brenen Thompson broke Mississippi States single-season receiving record. Running back Hollywood Smothers led the ACC in rushing yards per game at Texas. Offensive linemen like Savion Byrd and Eugene Brooks excelled at SMU and UCLA, respectively. On defense, Lewis Carter led UCF with ninety-two tackles, and Clayton Smith grabbed four sacks at Arizona State. These stories showcase how OU talent succeeds in various places amid the transfer portal chaos.

Jim Nagys transfer portal class for the Oklahoma Sooners is generating excitement, with standout wide receivers Trell Harris and Parker Livingstone joining a revamped tight end room featuring Hayden Hansen, Jack Van Dorselaer, and potential star Rocky Beers. The offensive line is bolstered by EMarion Harris, and edge rusher Kenny Ozowalu adds depth to the defense. Nagys strategic moves position the Sooners for a surprising 2026 season.

Tate Sandells record-breaking 24-field goal streak propelled the Oklahoma Sooners to the College Football Playoff, but the team cant rely solely on his kicks. With Sandells confidence and accuracy, and a strong offense, the Sooners are poised for a successful season, as long as they convert red zone opportunities and keep Mateer healthy.

University of Oklahomas new athletic director, Roger Denny, is a surprise pick, bringing a legal background and business acumen from Illinois deputy athletic director role. Despite initial skepticism, Dennys unique profile and experience in navigating college sports chaos impressed university president Joseph Harroz, leading to his hiring.

The Oklahoma Sooners, ranked 10th in the composite rankings, are poised for a strong 2026 season. Led by defensive coordinator Brent Venables and quarterback John Mateer, the team has added experienced transfers like Trell Harris, Parker Livingstone, and EMarion Harris. Despite a challenging schedule, the Sooners aim to contend for a playoff spot.

Oklahoma Sooners bolster offense with transfer portal additions, aiming for playoff spot in 2026

Oklahomas defensive line, a formidable force last season, returns key players like Taylor Wein and Adepoju Adebawore, who are poised to maintain the Sooners reputation as a tough team to run on. With Wein on the edge and Adebawore likely his counterpart, and a solid interior line led by Jackson and Stone, this group has the potential to keep the Sooners front seven dominant in 2026.

The Oklahoma Sooners offense, led by quarterback John Mateer, made significant strides in 2025, securing a College Football Playoff spot with impressive scoring and team play. Despite a thumb injury, Mateer returned for the Red River Rivalry and regained his form in the final games, averaging over 300 passing yards per game. Backup Whitt Newbauer and four-star recruit Bowe Bentley contribute to a strong quarterback room, setting the stage for a powerful offense in 2026 and a national championship contender.

Rhamondre Stevenson led the New England Patriots to a gripping AFC Championship win over the Denver Broncos, securing their Super Bowl spot. Stevenson, a former Oklahoma Sooner, rushed for 71 yards and showcased his skills throughout the game. Despite the loss, three ex-Sooners on the Broncos side—Nik Bonitto, Marvin Mims Jr., and Ben Powers—performed well. Stevenson, now in his fifth NFL season, prepares for the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks on February 8th.

On3s way-too-early 2026 All-America team snubbed Oklahomas Tate Sandell, leaving Sooners fans outraged. Sandell, a breakout star with a record-breaking season, was overlooked in favor of Ole Misss Lucas Carneiro. Despite Sandells impressive stats and the teams strong case for other players, Oklahoma was shut out of the list. Fans and experts alike are questioning the oversight, setting the stage for the Sooners to prove doubters wrong in the upcoming season.

Clendon Thomas, a legendary figure in Oklahoma football history, passed away at 90. He starred for Bud Wilkinsons dynasty from 1955-1957, excelling on offense, defense, and special teams. Thomas helped win two national championships, earned All-America honors, and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He rushed for over 2,100 yards, led the nation in scoring, and contributed to a record 47-game winning streak. In the NFL, he spent 11 seasons with the Rams and Steelers, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods. Thomass legacy endures through his stats, championships, and barrier-breaking spirit.

Clendon Thomas, a football legend, passed away at 90. He starred at Southeast High School, University of Oklahoma, and in the NFL. Thomas led Oklahoma to back-to-back national championships, earned a Pro Bowl nod, and helped launch the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was remembered as humble and will be honored at Putnam City Baptist Church.

Sooner fans loyalty shines as three fan favorites, R Mason Thomas, Deion Burks, and Gracen Halton, head to the 2026 NFL Draft. Thomas, a defensive powerhouse, is projected for a late first-round pick, while Burks, a speedy deep threat, could land in the third round. Halton, a four-year veteran, is expected to go in the later rounds, but all three are set to captivate Sooner Nation.