Roster Turnover and New Beginnings
Oklahoma’s updated roster for the 2025 season has been released, marking a significant shift in the program’s direction. With six weeks until the first game against Illinois State, the Sooners are preparing for a pivotal year under head coach Brent Venables. The roster reflects major changes, with a focus on rebuilding both offensively and defensively.
At the end of the 2024 season, Oklahoma had 127 players on its roster. However, 61 of them have left due to transfers, the NFL draft, eligibility expiration, or walk-on departures. In their place, the Sooners added 45 new players through high school recruiting, the transfer portal, or walk-ons. This leaves the team with 111 players as of July, a number that will eventually be capped at 105 due to recent rule changes.
The turnover is substantial, but it may be necessary for the program to return to its former glory. The Sooners finished with a 6-7 record in 2024, including a 2-6 mark in the SEC. This performance was far below expectations for a program historically known for competing for national championships. Only one player from Lincoln Riley’s 2021 roster remains on the 2025 team—Major Melson, a sixth-year senior wide receiver. This signifies a complete transition to Venables’ vision for the team.
Spring Additions and Adjustments
The spring season brought several key additions to the roster. Offensively, the Sooners welcomed running back Jaydn Ott, offensive lineman Jake Maikkula, wide receiver Jer’Michael Carter, and quarterback Whitt Newbauer. Defensively, they added defensive linemen Siolaa Lolohea and Reed DeQuasie via the transfer portal, along with late enrollees C.J. Nickson, Marcus James, Elgee Webster, and Barrett Travis. Former UTSA kicker Tate Sandell also joined the team, giving them a potential starter at that position.
However, the spring also saw some departures. Tight end Davon Mitchell and defensive backs Mykel Patterson-McDonald and Peter Schuh entered the transfer portal, along with running backs Sam Franklin and Gavin Sawchuk and offensive lineman Josh Aisosa. Defensive back Jocelyn Malaska initially entered the portal but later withdrew.
Quarterback depth has also seen changes. Cole Gonzales, who signed during the winter portal window, reentered the portal and moved to Pitt. Gavin Frakes committed to Oklahoma but never signed, ending up at Northwestern. This leaves John Mateer, Michael Hawkins Jr., Whitt Newbauer, and Jett Niu as the four quarterbacks on the roster.
Defensive Rebuilding and Physicality
One of Venables’ primary goals has been to rebuild the defense, especially in the context of the SEC, where physical play is essential. The defensive tackle position has seen a significant transformation. In 2020, the heaviest defensive tackle weighed 297 pounds. By 2025, the Sooners have seven defensive tackles heavier than that, signaling a shift toward more physicality.
Defensive tackles like Jayden Jackson, Damonic Williams, Gracen Halton, and David Stone are expected to be a strong unit this season. Their ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage will be crucial for the Sooners’ success in the SEC.
Offensive Stars and New Hope
On offense, quarterback John Mateer and running back Jaydn Ott are the most anticipated players. Both were added through the transfer portal, but the Sooners still need other standout performers to complement them. The offense lacks established stars beyond these two, making it critical for other players to step up.
Running backs Jovantae Barnes, Xavier Robinson, and Taylor Tatum could provide support for Ott. At wide receiver, Deion Burks, Jayden Gibson, and Javonnie Gibson are key players to watch, especially if they can stay healthy. Jer’Michael Carter’s addition gives the offense another big body to target in the red zone.
At tight end, Will Huggins and Carson Kent could offer reliable options. On the offensive line, veterans Troy Everett and Derek Simmons provide leadership, but there are plenty of young players ready to make an impact.
The 2022 Class Steps Up
Last year, the 2021 recruiting class led the defense, with players like Danny Stutsman, Billy Bowman Jr., and Ethan Downs making significant contributions. Now, the 2022 class must take over, with many of its members staying in Norman this offseason.
Defensive linemen Gracen Halton and R Mason Thomas, linebackers Kip Lewis and Kobie McKinzie, and defensive backs Robert Spears-Jennings and Gentry Williams are among those expected to lead the way. While the offensive side still needs development, the defense is showing signs of returning to its traditional strength.
With the right adjustments and performances, the 2025 Sooners have the potential to reclaim their place as a top-tier program in college football.
