Oklahoma Sooners aiming for veteran defenders, trench players ahead of Spring transfer portal window
The Oklahoma Sooners brought in 15 transfers out of the fall portal window, with most going toward fixing the Sooners' worst offense in over a decade. They did make arguably their two most important splashes on defense in adding defensive end Marvin Jones Jr and linebacker Kendal Daniels. With the spring portal window opening up […]
The Oklahoma Sooners brought in 15 transfers out of the fall portal window, with most going toward fixing the Sooners' worst offense in over a decade. They did make arguably their two most important splashes on defense in adding defensive end Marvin Jones Jr and linebacker Kendal Daniels.
With the spring portal window opening up on April 16th, some positions of need are starting to be identified on Oklahoma's roster, and the Sooners are gearing up to be pretty aggressive in adding talent to those spots in the upcoming portal window.
According to George Stoia of SoonerScoop, the Sooners are planning on targeting quite a few spots to boost the depth and talent of the team.
"Cornerback, for sure. I’m not sure about tight end. I actually think they like some of those guys. A veteran linebacker is something they’re looking for. And I would say, defensive tackle, center, and receiver are also options. I also wouldn’t rule out running back if someone leaves."
Some of those positions aren't surprising to see. Oklahoma's depth at linebacker took a hit in the offseason with Danny Stutsman off to the NFL, as well as Lewis Carter and Dasan McCullough's decisions to transfer away.
Cornerback also makes some sense, as the Sooners have very little experience in that room. The talent of the young players is evident, but having a proven vet to lean on isn't a bad idea either.
I'm mainly interested in their additions at defensive tackle and center. The top of their defensive tackle room has older players in Gracen Halton and Damonic Williams. Once they graduate at the end of the 2025 season, the room suddenly becomes just Jayden Jackson, David Stone, and three-star 2024 recruit Trent Wilson. Oklahoma pursuing a developmental interior defender with multiple years of eligibility would be a prudent decision.
This is much the same at center. Troy Everett returns to lead the pivot spot, but behind him is Josh Aisosa, who is still relatively raw. The Sooners pursuing another young option here to give them some competition heading into next season is always a smart idea.
Beyond that, continuing to invest resources in the offensive skill positions is the most important part of this. After the injuries the Sooners sustained in 2024, you can never be too sure of your depth. Plucking talent away out of the portal, especially options with multiple years of eligibility, should be a priority for Oklahoma's offense.
