Insider Notebook: Latest Rumblings on Oklahoma and the Future of the Coaching Staff
As the 2025 football season approaches, the Oklahoma Sooners program finds itself in the midst of a crucial transition period. While the offense has continued to produce at a high level, the defense has been the subject of scrutiny. With the coaching staff under intense pressure to make improvements, there has been plenty of speculation about the future of the coaching staff and the moves that will be made to ensure the Sooners are once again competing for national championships.
In this edition of the Insider Notebook, we will dive deep into the latest rumors and rumblings surrounding Oklahoma’s coaching staff, the changes that could be on the horizon, and how the program is positioning itself for success in the years to come.
Brent Venables’ Focus on Revamping the Defense
Brent Venables, the head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, has long been regarded as one of the top defensive minds in college football. However, despite his success at Clemson and his past as Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator, the defense has not been up to par since he returned to Norman. The Sooners’ defense has consistently underperformed, and in 2024, it became clear that something needed to change if Oklahoma was to return to its championship-contending form.
As of mid-January 2025, there have been strong indications that Venables is ready to make significant adjustments to his coaching staff in order to address these defensive issues. One of the most pressing changes that has been discussed internally is the potential departure of Oklahoma’s current defensive coordinator, who has faced significant criticism over the past couple of seasons. Rumors have been circulating that the Sooners are close to finalizing a deal with a prominent name in defensive coaching to take over this critical role.
Venables has reportedly been looking for a defensive coordinator who has a proven track record of success and the ability to work with Oklahoma’s current roster of elite defensive talent. One name that has consistently come up in these discussions is Todd Grantham, a veteran defensive coach with a history of success at both the college and NFL levels. Grantham, who most recently served as the defensive coordinator at Florida, has long been known for his aggressive, physical style of defense. His ability to produce dominant defensive lines and develop linebackers could make him the perfect fit for Oklahoma’s needs.
While Grantham’s hire is not yet finalized, insiders suggest that a decision could be made in the near future, with Venables aiming to make a swift move to solidify the defensive coaching staff before spring practice begins. Grantham’s extensive experience and ability to recruit at a high level could be exactly what the Sooners need to improve on that side of the ball.
Potential Staff Changes Across the Board
While the defensive coordinator position is the most talked-about change within the Oklahoma coaching staff, it’s not the only spot that could see a shake-up. There are rumblings that Venables may also look to make changes to the other defensive coaching positions, especially within the secondary and linebacking corps. Despite having some of the best athletes in the country, Oklahoma’s defensive backs and linebackers have struggled with consistency in recent seasons.
Sources close to the program have indicated that Venables is considering bringing in some fresh faces with experience in developing defensive talent, particularly those who can help the Sooners improve their ability to defend the pass and maintain coverage on high-powered offenses. As the Big 12 continues to evolve, it’s essential for Oklahoma to adapt its defensive strategies to deal with the increasingly pass-heavy offenses in the conference.
Secondary Coach Rumblings: Could a Change Be Coming?
One specific area of focus for Venables is the secondary. The Sooners have had talent in the defensive backfield but have been prone to giving up big plays, particularly against teams with high-level passing attacks. Some insiders are speculating that Venables may be considering a change at cornerbacks or safeties coach. Several potential names have emerged as candidates to take over this important role, including Maurice Linguist, a defensive backs coach who has had success at both the college and NFL levels.
Linguist, who previously served as a defensive backs coach at Minnesota and more recently as a defensive coordinator at Buffalo, is highly regarded for his ability to develop young talent and improve secondary play. His aggressive coaching style and attention to detail could help Oklahoma improve its coverage and ball skills in the secondary.
Another name that has surfaced in connection with Oklahoma’s secondary is Charlie Harbison, a longtime coach with experience at both the college and professional levels. Harbison has worked as a defensive backs coach at schools like Auburn and Mississippi State, and his ability to coach high-level defensive backs could be an asset to the Sooners’ defense. There is significant buzz that Venables is eyeing experienced coaches like Linguist and Harbison to help stabilize the secondary and make the necessary improvements.
The Offensive Staff: Stability and Growth
While much of the focus has been on the defense, the offensive side of the ball also has its share of intrigue. Oklahoma has been known for its explosive, high-scoring offenses, and in recent years, the Sooners have continued to perform at a high level under offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby. However, the challenge for Venables and his staff is ensuring that the offense continues to evolve and complement the defensive improvements that are expected to come.
Insiders have suggested that there will be minimal changes to the offensive coaching staff for 2025, as the Sooners are still riding high on the success of their high-powered offense. Quarterbacks coach Cale Gundy, a beloved figure within the Oklahoma program, is expected to remain in his position, helping to develop the next generation of Sooners quarterbacks. With talented quarterbacks like Dillon Gabriel and Nick Evers in the fold, Gundy’s ability to mold Oklahoma’s quarterbacks will be crucial for maintaining offensive success.
One area of concern, however, is the running back position. While Oklahoma has had great success with its running backs in the past, the Sooners have struggled to maintain a consistent running game over the last few seasons. With that in mind, there are some whispers that Venables may look to bring in a new running backs coach to help revitalize the running game. One candidate who has emerged in the conversation is Kenny McIntosh, the former running backs coach at Florida State who helped develop several standout running backs in the ACC.
Though this is still speculative, McIntosh’s track record of producing productive running backs and his experience in the Power Five could be exactly what the Sooners need to develop a more balanced offensive attack.
Recruiting: Oklahoma’s Continued Push for Top Talent
As Oklahoma looks to revamp its coaching staff, one thing is clear: recruiting will remain a central focus. Venables has consistently emphasized the importance of building a strong recruiting pipeline, and with the changes happening within the staff, Oklahoma is well-positioned to bring in the kind of talent that will help them compete for national championships in the future.
Several key recruits have already committed to Oklahoma for the 2025 class, and with the Sooners expected to make moves in the transfer portal as well, this is shaping up to be a critical year for recruiting. The changes to the coaching staff could play a significant role in attracting top-tier talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
The Transfer Portal: More Moves Coming?
One of the most significant developments in college football over the past few years has been the rise of the transfer portal, and Oklahoma has been an active player in this space. With several key departures, particularly in the secondary and at linebacker, many fans are wondering whether the Sooners will look to the portal for immediate contributors in 2025.
Insiders have suggested that Oklahoma may focus on adding more experience in the secondary and along the defensive line, where depth could become an issue. Several high-profile players have entered the transfer portal in recent weeks, and Oklahoma’s staff is reportedly already evaluating potential additions to the roster. With Venables known for his ability to develop talent, the Sooners could look to supplement their roster with some experienced players who can contribute right away.
Looking Ahead: What Does the Future Hold for Oklahoma’s Coaching Staff?
As Oklahoma continues to make moves in the coaching staff and recruiting realm, the future of the program is bright but dependent on these key decisions. With a head coach like Brent Venables at the helm, Oklahoma has a strong foundation, but the Sooners will need to make smart, strategic decisions to continue to compete for championships. Whether it’s the addition of a new defensive coordinator, changes to the secondary coaching staff, or adjustments to the offensive side of the ball, these moves will be critical for Oklahoma’s success in 2025 and beyond.
As more rumors swirl around the future of the Oklahoma coaching staff, Sooner fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcements. With the season fast approaching, the coaching decisions made now will have a significant impact on the Sooners’ ability to contend for another Big 12 title and, ultimately, a spot in the College Football Playoff.
