Westview Phenom Graham Simpson Adds Oklahoma Offer to Surging D1 Football Recruitment
Martin Westview (TN) standout Graham Simpson is quickly becoming one of the most coveted names in the 2027 football recruiting class. The rising sophomore’s growing list of scholarship offers gained another major addition this week as the Oklahoma Sooners became the latest Power Five program to throw their hat in the ring for the 6-foot-2, 185-pound playmaker.
Simpson’s offer from Oklahoma solidifies his status as a national recruit early in his high school career. The Sooners join a who’s who of college football programs already chasing the Westview product, including Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Boston College, Duke, Arkansas, UCLA, Arizona, North Carolina, and Syracuse. Each program has recognized Simpson’s electric ability on the field and his rare potential to impact the game in multiple phases. Now, Oklahoma becomes the eleventh school to make its interest official—and based on the sophomore’s trajectory, it’s unlikely to be the last.
For Simpson, the Oklahoma offer carries major weight. The Sooners have long been a blueblood in college football, with a tradition of excellence that includes Heisman Trophy winners, national championships, and consistent NFL production. Since head coach Brent Venables took over in 2022, Oklahoma has emphasized recruiting tough, dynamic athletes on both sides of the ball, particularly in the secondary and skill positions. Simpson fits that mold perfectly. Whether he ultimately projects as a rangy defensive back, an explosive slot receiver, or even a two-way threat, his instincts, length, and athleticism make him a natural fit for what Oklahoma looks for in elite prospects.
The Sooners’ offer further validates what coaches across the country have already seen in Simpson: a multi-sport athlete with high football IQ, advanced technique, and the physical gifts that translate to the next level. On the field, Simpson showcases rare positional versatility. At Westview, he lines up all over the formation—taking snaps at cornerback, safety, receiver, and even contributing on special teams. His long strides and fluid hips make him a nightmare to cover and an asset in coverage. He breaks on the ball with confidence, and when he arrives, he brings a physicality that belies his age. It’s the kind of polish and natural skill set that can’t be taught—only sharpened with time and coaching.
Off the field, Simpson has impressed evaluators and coaches with his approach to the game. His work ethic, competitive drive, and character have stood out during visits and conversations with recruiters. Simpson is also a standout student, balancing the demands of athletics with academic excellence. That combination—athleticism, intelligence, and maturity—has made him one of the fastest-rising names in the country.
The recent wave of offers marks a turning point in Simpson’s recruitment. He first began drawing attention during his freshman year with eye-catching highlights and strong performances in 7-on-7 and camp settings. Still, the past few months have elevated him from regional standout to national commodity. With bluebloods like Oklahoma and North Carolina joining the mix, and with schools from every major conference now involved, Simpson is firmly on the radar of every major recruiting service and talent evaluator.
Simpson’s story is also a major source of pride for the Martin Westview community, where he’s become something of a local legend even before the midpoint of his high school career. The program has a proud tradition of producing top-tier athletes, and Simpson is poised to be its next great star. Coaches at Westview describe him as a leader on and off the field, someone who leads by example but isn’t afraid to challenge teammates to rise with him. His presence has helped elevate the entire program, drawing increased attention from college scouts and media.
While it’s still early in the recruiting process for a member of the 2027 class, Simpson and his family have taken a thoughtful approach to navigating the intense spotlight. They’ve visited several campuses already and are building relationships with coaching staffs, but the focus remains on development and enjoying the journey. For Simpson, every offer is appreciated—but it’s not the end goal. His priority is improvement: mastering his technique, staying healthy, and continuing to grow as a player and person.
In conversations with recruiting insiders, it’s clear Simpson’s recruitment is only just beginning to heat up. With two full high school seasons still ahead, his offer list is expected to expand significantly. Programs from the Big Ten, SEC, ACC, Big 12, and Pac-12 are all monitoring his progress, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see national powers like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, or Michigan enter the picture before long. His frame and skill set make him a fit for multiple defensive and offensive schemes, and his upside is as high as any prospect in his class.
Oklahoma’s timing is notable. By extending an early offer, the Sooners position themselves as one of the programs most committed to Simpson’s development and future. Under Venables and defensive coordinator Ted Roof, Oklahoma has placed a premium on identifying elite talent early and building lasting relationships. The Sooners’ defensive backfield has undergone a transformation in recent years, and a player like Simpson fits into their vision of a fast, physical, and instinctive secondary. While Simpson hasn’t made any public decisions about where he’s leaning, Oklahoma’s presence in his recruitment gives them a strong foothold and a compelling pitch: come be part of something special.
As Simpson prepares for his sophomore season at Westview, all signs point to a breakout campaign. With a full offseason of growth and training under his belt, he’s expected to be the focal point of Westview’s game plan on both sides of the ball. Opposing coaches already scheme around him, and that attention is only going to increase. But if anything, Simpson has shown he thrives under pressure. Whether it’s locking down the opposing team’s top wideout or making a clutch play in the return game, he delivers when the spotlight is brightest.
Simpson’s recruitment is also a case study in how the college football landscape continues to evolve. With NIL opportunities and early exposure through social media and camps, elite prospects are getting noticed earlier than ever. For Simpson, that attention has come quickly—but it hasn’t come without merit. His performance has earned every bit of the buzz, and his demeanor suggests he’s built for the long haul.
Looking ahead, Simpson is expected to take more unofficial visits this summer and could camp at a few more schools. He’s already begun to build relationships with position coaches and coordinators at each of his offering schools. With so many options on the table, his decision down the road will likely come down to fit, trust, and development. Wherever he lands, that program will be getting a game-changing athlete and a high-character young man.
For now, though, Simpson is focused on what got him here—hard work, discipline, and a love for the game. His latest offer from Oklahoma is the latest milestone in a journey that’s just beginning. And for those who have followed his rise from the start, it’s clear Graham Simpson is not just the next big thing in Tennessee high school football—he’s on track to become a household name across the country.
