When the college football transfer portal officially opened, the Oklahoma Sooners found themselves facing a slow start in the early days of the cycle. While the team had already seen some departures, particularly at the wide receiver position, it wasn’t targeting the one area that fans and analysts alike felt it needed to focus on the most — tight end. Initially, the Sooners seemed to be trailing other programs in terms of securing important additions to their roster. However, after some unexpected coaching changes, the program’s transfer portal activity began to pick up pace.
In particular, Oklahoma was able to address some of its needs and, perhaps most notably, land a player who fits the offensive system implemented by new offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby and tight ends coach, Michael Arbuckle. One of the key additions that could prove pivotal for the Sooners’ future is John Locke, a former tight end for the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. His commitment is a crucial step in addressing a position that, despite its potential, had been somewhat neglected in the early stages of the portal.
John Locke’s Journey: A Transfer with Potential
John Locke arrives at Oklahoma after spending the last few seasons at Louisiana Tech, where he contributed to the Bulldogs’ offense as a tight end. A 2022 three-star recruit, Locke’s numbers on paper don’t jump off the page — just three receptions for six yards and one touchdown across his career — but his value lies beyond the box score. While he may not have been heavily utilized as a pass catcher, Locke has showcased his potential in other important areas, particularly in his blocking and ability to contribute on special teams.
At 6’4″ and 241 pounds, Locke possesses a solid physical frame that could make him an ideal fit in Oklahoma’s system. His blocking ability is perhaps the most significant asset he brings to the table. As a tight end, he excels in helping create lanes in the run game, an area that is crucial for any offense but particularly important for a program like Oklahoma, which has relied heavily on a strong rushing attack under head coach Brent Venables. Locke’s proficiency in blocking is even evident in his ability to pull as a fullback, an added versatility that will allow him to contribute in various schemes.
While his receiving stats haven’t been eye-popping, Locke’s blocking is likely to be his bread and butter at Oklahoma. His size and skill set should enable him to fill a significant role within the offense, especially in short-yardage or goal-line situations where physicality and an ability to control the line of scrimmage are paramount. As a player with two years of eligibility remaining, Locke’s time with the Sooners could prove to be highly beneficial as he develops and continues to refine his skills within Arbuckle’s offensive scheme.
Oklahoma’s Tight End Struggles and Needs
Oklahoma’s tight end position has long been a question mark in terms of consistent production and depth. In recent seasons, the Sooners have not consistently featured tight ends as focal points in their offense, with the position playing a supporting role rather than serving as a major weapon. While other programs in the Big 12 have utilized tight ends as primary receiving threats, Oklahoma’s focus has generally been on its wide receiver corps and running backs.
However, this gap in offensive weaponry has not gone unnoticed. Under Lebby’s offensive scheme, which has roots in spread and up-tempo styles of play, the tight end has the potential to play a crucial role in both the passing game and blocking schemes. This is where a player like Locke could be a perfect fit. With his size and versatility, Locke has the potential to not only fill the blocking void but also give the Sooners more flexibility and creativity in their play-calling.
The Sooners have lacked consistent playmaking from the tight end position for years, and with Locke’s arrival, there is a hope that he can begin to contribute in both facets of the game. While he may not come in as a high-flying receiving threat, his ability to block and his special teams experience should provide Oklahoma with immediate depth and stability at the position.
Locke’s Special Teams Experience and Role
In addition to his blocking skills, Locke has carved out a role for himself on special teams at Louisiana Tech, earning significant snap counts. According to Pro Football Focus, Locke recorded 216 snaps on special teams, which speaks to his reliability and versatility. This experience will be valuable for Oklahoma, as special teams play a crucial role in winning games, and adding depth in that area is always important.
Oklahoma has seen success with special teams in recent seasons, and Locke could help continue that trend. His ability to block effectively, coupled with his familiarity with special teams, means that he can contribute right away in various aspects of the game. Whether it’s on the kick return or punt coverage unit, Locke will be an asset who can make an immediate impact in areas outside of the offense as well.
The Walk-On Rumor: A Potential Motivator for Locke
One of the most interesting and perhaps confusing aspects of Locke’s commitment is the rumor that he may be joining Oklahoma as a preferred walk-on. If true, this would add an extra layer of motivation for Locke, as he would be entering the program without an official scholarship. While it’s unclear how true these reports are, the idea of Locke coming in as a walk-on is intriguing for a few reasons.
First and foremost, it could provide Locke with an added chip on his shoulder. Having to prove himself without the promise of a scholarship might fuel his determination to excel in every area. Given his previous lack of significant offensive production, Locke would likely be motivated to prove himself as a capable contributor, whether it’s in the blocking game, special teams, or even eventually as a pass-catcher. If these rumors are accurate, it’s possible that Locke’s story could end up being one of the most motivational and rewarding tales for Oklahoma fans, as the player who once wasn’t given an initial scholarship ends up becoming a key contributor for the Sooners.
Conclusion: A Key Addition for Oklahoma’s Depth
John Locke’s addition to the Oklahoma Sooners could be one of the most under-the-radar yet impactful moves of the transfer portal cycle. Although his past production at Louisiana Tech hasn’t been overwhelming, his physical attributes, blocking ability, and special teams experience give him a solid foundation to contribute at a high level for Oklahoma. His potential to fit into Arbuckle’s system, combined with the fact that he still has two years of eligibility remaining, means that Locke could provide the Sooners with added depth and versatility at the tight end position. Whether he’s called upon to block for Oklahoma’s high-powered offense or contribute on special teams, Locke’s commitment to the program could prove to be a crucial piece of the Sooners’ future success.
