Oklahoma Sooners Face a Challenging Offseason After Transfer Portal Window
As the dust settles following the transfer portal’s winter window, Oklahoma’s football program finds itself in a transition phase, with more departures than additions. The Sooners have lost 26 players from their 2024 roster, while gaining just 14 newcomers, a gap that is significant both in terms of numbers and the potential impact on the team for the upcoming season.
This offseason has been a period of significant change for Oklahoma, especially with the program’s shift toward a new era within the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With the Sooners looking to build for the future, the loss of key players, including those who may have contributed to leadership in the locker room and on the field, creates a challenge for head coach Brent Venables and his staff. However, the additions from the transfer portal have provided some bright spots and offer glimpses of what could be a promising future for the program.
Losses Outweigh Gains
Oklahoma’s loss of 26 players from the 2024 roster, including some key contributors, raises questions about how the team will address these vacancies and maintain a competitive edge. These departures often result from players seeking more playing time elsewhere or transferring for a variety of reasons, whether personal or program-related. But while losses can be tough to stomach, they also offer an opportunity to reshape and improve the roster through the portal.
The fact that Oklahoma has picked up just 14 new players through the transfer portal is relatively modest compared to the departures, but the Sooners have bolstered their roster with a few highly impactful acquisitions. A recent surge in commitments has helped replenish key positions, but it remains to be seen whether these additions can immediately step into prominent roles and help the team navigate the challenges of a new conference.
Big Additions From Power Four Conferences
Despite the overall loss-to-gain ratio, Oklahoma has been active in improving its roster, particularly in the transfer portal. Recently, the Sooners have secured a few players from power four conferences, which include the PAC-12, SEC, Big Ten, and ACC.
One of the most notable additions has been wide receiver Josiah Martin from the University of California. Martin’s experience in a power conference gives him the opportunity to make an immediate impact for the Sooners, providing quarterback Dillon Gabriel with another weapon on the outside. Martin is expected to step in and contribute to a receiving corps that is vital to Oklahoma’s offense.
Additionally, the Sooners made some crucial defensive pickups. The most impactful of these is defensive end Marvin Jones Jr., who transferred from Florida State. Jones brings an excellent skill set that could help Oklahoma’s defensive line become more disruptive, complementing the team’s pass rush and run defense in 2025. Defensive ends like Jones are critical to securing the edge and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, making this a key acquisition for the Sooners.
Alongside Jones, linebacker Kendal Daniels from Oklahoma State is another crucial addition for Oklahoma’s defense. Daniels has a high ceiling, and his experience in the Big 12 gives him an advantage in transitioning to the SEC. His ability to read offenses and contribute in both coverage and the run game will be vital for a Sooners defense looking to improve next season.
The Defensive Void
With just two defensive commitments from the transfer portal thus far, Oklahoma’s defense remains in need of reinforcements. The departures of key players, including cornerback Woodi Washington and the recent loss of cornerback Kani Walker, leave a considerable void in the defensive backfield. Washington’s departure is particularly notable as he was a fixture in the secondary and a leader for the defense. Without him, Oklahoma must look elsewhere to shore up their cornerback depth.
The cornerback position, in particular, is one that stands out as needing attention. Oklahoma will have to find a way to fill the gap left by Washington, as well as manage the growing need for depth at the position. With only two new defensive players committed through the portal, it is likely that additional cornerbacks or secondary players will need to be added to the mix to ensure the Sooners have a deep, competitive defensive backfield for the 2025 season.
On the bright side, rising sophomore Eli Bowen has shown promise as a starter at cornerback. Bowen had a breakout season in 2024, recording 20 solo tackles, two tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and an interception. Bowen’s ability to handle himself at cornerback could help ease the burden on the secondary, but the team will need more contributors to develop a solid, stable defensive unit.
The Need for Further Reinforcements
As Oklahoma’s defensive recruiting continues, it’s clear that cornerback remains one of the top priorities for the coaching staff. With the Sooners needing to replace both Washington and Walker, the opportunity is there for Bowen to step up and solidify one cornerback position. However, depth will be crucial, and it’s likely that Brent Venables and his staff will continue to search for additional talent in the secondary, whether that’s through the transfer portal or in the upcoming recruiting class.
In addition to cornerback, other positions on the defense could use added competition and depth. The linebacker corps, while bolstered by Daniels, still has a gap in overall experience and playmaking ability. The Sooners will need to develop their younger linebackers or bring in additional help to ensure that the defense can play at a high level in the SEC.
Defensive line depth is another area where the Sooners could use reinforcements. While Jones provides a strong addition on the edge, depth is key along the front line. Oklahoma will need to build a consistent pass rush and keep opposing offenses from controlling the line of scrimmage. The defense’s ability to disrupt the quarterback and control the run game will ultimately determine how well the team performs in the SEC.
Recruiting Strategy and Long-Term Outlook
As Oklahoma prepares for its transition to the SEC, the focus on rebuilding and strengthening the defense through the portal is crucial. The Sooners need to continue emphasizing the importance of solidifying the defensive backfield, with cornerback and safety positions taking priority. Defensive line reinforcements will also be key, but much of the team’s success will hinge on the ability to add the right defensive talent, especially in the secondary.
Oklahoma’s ability to adapt to the challenges of SEC competition will rely on how quickly the new players can mesh with returning talent. The defensive coaching staff, led by Brent Venables, will play a pivotal role in developing these players and ensuring they are prepared for the tough competition in the SEC.
Looking ahead, the Sooners will need to continue to build their defensive unit through recruiting, both in the transfer portal and through high school recruits. For the 2025 season, the development of Bowen and the incoming transfer players will be crucial for Oklahoma’s success. The defensive line, linebackers, and secondary all need to come together for the Sooners to challenge for SEC titles and remain competitive on a national stage.
In conclusion, while Oklahoma’s transfer portal activity this offseason has been marked by significant losses, the program has made some key additions, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. However, with positions like cornerback still needing attention, the Sooners will likely continue to search for reinforcements to make sure their roster is ready for the demanding SEC competition ahead. With new faces and rising stars like Bowen, the Sooners are aiming for a bright future, but the team’s ability to address its defensive needs will determine how quickly they can make their mark in the SEC.
