Oklahoma’s Defensive Stars Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas Set to Return for 2025 Season, Delaying NFL Dreams

The University of Oklahoma has long been a powerhouse in college football, known for producing top-tier talent across all positions. In recent years, the defensive side of the ball has witnessed a resurgence under head coach Brent Venables, a defensive mastermind with a reputation for turning average defenses into elite units. Two of the standout players on the Sooners’ defense, Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas, have become household names in college football. With both players showing immense promise, their decision to return for the 2025 season has sent ripples through the college football world, as they choose to delay their NFL aspirations for one more year. This decision not only speaks volumes about their commitment to the program but also solidifies Oklahoma’s defensive future as they look to build on their recent success.

The Rise of Kip Lewis

Kip Lewis, a linebacker, arrived at Oklahoma with high expectations. After a standout high school career, he was regarded as one of the top prospects in his recruiting class. Lewis is a versatile linebacker with a rare combination of size, speed, and intelligence. At 6’2″ and 230 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes needed to excel at the collegiate level and beyond. His ability to read offenses, react quickly, and make plays in both the running and passing game quickly made him one of the Sooners’ most important defensive players.

In his first two seasons with Oklahoma, Lewis has been a terror for opposing offenses. His performances in crucial games have been pivotal in Oklahoma’s victories, particularly in Big 12 matchups. His presence on the field is undeniable, whether it’s forcing turnovers, making key tackles, or disrupting opposing quarterbacks. Lewis’s ability to be a leader on and off the field also stands out, as he often helps orchestrate the defensive schemes while being a vocal leader in the locker room.

After a standout 2024 season, Lewis was widely considered a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and leadership qualities made him an enticing prospect for NFL teams. However, despite the lure of professional football, Lewis made the decision to return to Norman for another season, much to the delight of Sooner fans and the coaching staff.

Why Kip Lewis Chose to Return

Lewis’s decision to return for another year was not an easy one. The temptation of declaring for the NFL Draft and starting his professional career was strong, but Lewis had several reasons for opting to stay in college.

One of the biggest factors in his decision was his desire to continue developing his game. While Lewis has shown flashes of brilliance, he knows that one more year in college could help him fine-tune his skills and become an even more complete player. Under Venables’ defensive scheme, which places a heavy emphasis on individual development, Lewis believes that he can become a better version of himself.

Another factor in Lewis’s decision is his desire to leave a legacy at Oklahoma. The Sooners have been a dominant force in college football for decades, and Lewis wants to be a part of their resurgence on the national stage. By returning for the 2025 season, he has an opportunity to help lead the Sooners back to the College Football Playoff and potentially win a national championship. For a player of his caliber, that opportunity could significantly boost his legacy and draft stock.

Lastly, Kip Lewis’s strong relationship with his teammates and coaches played a pivotal role in his decision. Venables and the coaching staff have been instrumental in his development, and Lewis feels a sense of loyalty to the program that gave him the platform to showcase his talents. The bond between him and his teammates is tight-knit, and he’s excited about the potential for another successful season with them.

R Mason Thomas: A Defensive Playmaker

While Kip Lewis has been a standout linebacker for the Sooners, R Mason Thomas has become one of the most disruptive defensive linemen in the Big 12. A native of Texas, Thomas arrived at Oklahoma with a reputation for being a dynamic pass rusher with incredible burst off the edge. Standing at 6’3″ and 250 pounds, Thomas has the perfect frame to excel as a defensive end, and his agility and speed make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

In his first two seasons with Oklahoma, Thomas has lived up to the hype. His ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt the flow of the opposing offense has been a key factor in the Sooners’ defensive success. Whether lining up on the edge or moving inside on passing downs, Thomas’s motor never stops. His relentless pursuit of the ball carrier and his ability to generate tackles for loss and sacks have made him a staple of Oklahoma’s defensive front.

In 2024, Thomas was one of the most dominant defensive players in the Big 12. His performances against ranked teams and his consistent production throughout the season earned him national attention. As a result, he was projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with many analysts praising his high ceiling and potential at the next level.

Why R Mason Thomas Chose to Return

Like Kip Lewis, Thomas had the opportunity to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, but he made the decision to return for another season. The decision wasn’t easy, but Thomas had several reasons for his choice.

For one, Thomas is highly motivated to continue his development. While he has shown immense potential as a pass rusher, he knows that he has areas of his game that need improvement. One of those areas is his ability to defend the run, and Thomas is determined to become a more well-rounded defensive lineman. By returning to Oklahoma for the 2025 season, he has the chance to work on these areas and elevate his game to an even higher level.

Another factor in Thomas’s decision was the opportunity to chase championships with Oklahoma. The Sooners have been on the cusp of greatness in recent years, and Thomas is committed to helping the team achieve its ultimate goal of winning a national title. With another year of development and an even stronger defensive unit, Thomas believes that the Sooners have what it takes to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Finally, Thomas’s decision to return was influenced by his strong ties to the program and coaching staff. He has a close relationship with defensive coordinator Venables, who has been instrumental in his development as a player. The coaching staff’s ability to maximize his strengths and help him address his weaknesses has been a key factor in Thomas’s decision to return. The support and guidance from Venables and the rest of the defensive staff have made Thomas feel confident in his decision to delay his NFL aspirations for one more season.

Impact on Oklahoma’s Defense

The return of both Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas for the 2025 season is a huge boost for Oklahoma’s defense. The Sooners have built a strong defensive identity under Venables, and these two players are at the center of that resurgence. With Lewis patrolling the linebacker position and Thomas wreaking havoc on the defensive line, Oklahoma’s defense looks poised to be one of the best in the country.

In addition to their individual talents, both players bring a leadership presence that will be crucial for Oklahoma in 2025. Lewis and Thomas have been vocal leaders for the Sooners, and their commitment to staying another season sets a tone for the entire team. Their decision shows that they are willing to put the team first and continue working toward a championship, which will undoubtedly inspire their teammates to do the same.

The Bigger Picture: Delaying NFL Dreams

The decision by Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas to return for another season also speaks to a larger trend in college football. In recent years, many players have chosen to return to school rather than enter the NFL Draft, driven by factors such as the desire for personal growth, the opportunity to compete for championships, and the need to refine their skills. This trend has been seen in various programs across the country, and it reflects a shift in priorities for many elite college athletes.

For Lewis and Thomas, the chance to continue developing their skills and playing for a championship was too valuable to pass up. While the NFL will always be an option, they recognize that their decision to return could have a lasting impact on their careers. By staying in college for another season, they increase their chances of becoming more well-rounded players, boosting their draft stock and ensuring that they are fully prepared for the rigors of professional football.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

As the 2025 season approaches, Oklahoma fans will be watching closely to see how Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas perform in their final seasons in college. With both players committed to the program and determined to reach new heights, the Sooners’ defense is in great hands.

For both Lewis and Thomas, the 2025 season represents the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Their decisions to return for one more year provide Oklahoma with a unique opportunity to build on its recent success and make a legitimate run at a national championship. For the two defensive stars, the goal is clear: leave a legacy at Oklahoma, develop their skills, and prepare for the next chapter of their careers in the NFL.