BREAKING: Four-Star 2026 Quarterback Bowe Bentley Commits to Oklahoma Sooners, Solidifying Brent Venables’ Future at Signal-Caller

The Oklahoma Sooners just scored one of the biggest wins on the 2026 recruiting trail, as four-star quarterback Bowe Bentley has officially announced his commitment to Brent Venables and the Sooners. In an era where elite quarterbacks dictate the national college football landscape, Bentley’s pledge is monumental for a program eager to reclaim its reputation as “Quarterback U” and return to perennial playoff contention.

Bentley, rated as a consensus top-10 quarterback in the 2026 class and ranked among the top 75 players nationally, made his decision public after months of heavy recruitment from blue-blood programs across the country. The signal-caller from Prosper, Texas, had offers from Alabama, Georgia, LSU, USC, and Texas, among others. Yet, after multiple visits to Norman and significant conversations with the Sooners’ coaching staff, Bentley made it clear—Oklahoma felt like home.

“I’ve prayed on this decision, talked with my family, and really taken the time to understand what program can help me grow both as a quarterback and as a man,” Bentley said during his announcement on social media. “After everything, it’s clear—there’s no place like Oklahoma.”

For Brent Venables, this commitment is not just another recruiting victory—it’s a statement. Since taking over in Norman, Venables has faced immense pressure to keep Oklahoma at the forefront of national relevance, especially with the Sooners’ recent transition into the SEC, where competition intensifies with every season. Landing Bentley sends a clear message to the rest of the college football world: Oklahoma remains a destination for elite talent under center.

Offensive coordinator Seth Littrell, instrumental in Bentley’s recruitment, played a critical role in connecting with the young quarterback and showcasing the Sooners’ vision for his future. Littrell’s revamped offensive scheme, blending traditional Oklahoma air-raid principles with modern pro-style concepts, appeals to quarterbacks looking to develop for both college success and NFL readiness.

“Coach Littrell showed me exactly how I fit in their system,” Bentley added. “They’re going to let me play my game, make reads, use my legs when needed, and keep attacking defenses. It’s aggressive football, and that’s what I love.”

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 205 pounds, Bentley possesses the physical tools that elite programs crave. He’s known for his lightning-quick release, strong arm, and advanced ability to read defenses for a player of his age. His junior season at Prosper High School solidified his reputation, as he threw for over 3,200 yards and 31 touchdowns while adding nearly 600 yards rushing and seven more scores on the ground. Scouts praise his poise under pressure, mobility, and ability to extend plays without sacrificing accuracy.

Beyond the stat sheet, Bentley is regarded for his leadership and football IQ, traits Oklahoma values highly as they look to stabilize the quarterback position for years to come. His work ethic and competitive edge have drawn comparisons to former Sooner greats, sparking excitement among the Oklahoma faithful.

“He’s got the ‘it’ factor,” one national scout shared. “Bowe isn’t just physically gifted—he processes the game like a veteran and elevates everyone around him.”

The Sooners’ quarterback room is already one of the most talked-about in the nation, especially with Washington State transfer John Mateer impressing early in 2025 and establishing himself as the immediate future of the offense. Mateer’s decision to stay loyal to Oklahoma despite significant NIL offers elsewhere has provided stability, but the addition of Bentley gives the program its long-term answer once Mateer’s time in Norman concludes.

The timing of Bentley’s commitment also provides recruiting momentum for Oklahoma in the loaded 2026 class. Top receivers, offensive linemen, and even defensive playmakers often wait to see which quarterback will lead a class before making their own decisions. With Bentley now on board, expect other high-profile prospects to take a serious look at joining the Sooners.

Bentley’s commitment could also help the Sooners fend off rivals on the recruiting trail, particularly Texas, who heavily pursued the Prosper native and viewed him as a potential face of their future offense. Beating out Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns for a Texas-based quarterback only adds fuel to the Red River rivalry and reinforces Oklahoma’s footprint in one of the nation’s most talent-rich recruiting regions.

“It came down to relationships, trust, and development,” Bentley’s father shared. “Coach Venables and Coach Littrell believe in Bowe—not just as a player but as a young man. That means everything to our family.”

For Oklahoma fans, Bentley represents more than just a star recruit; he symbolizes hope for a program seeking its next elite quarterback era following legends like Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts, and Caleb Williams. While expectations will be high, those close to Bentley insist he embraces the pressure and thrives in competitive environments.

“He’s been playing high-level football his whole life,” Prosper head coach Brandon Schmidt said. “Nothing rattles him. His teammates love him, coaches trust him, and when the lights come on, Bowe delivers.”

Bentley has already established relationships with several other top recruits nationally, actively participating in camps, 7-on-7 circuits, and elite quarterback showcases. His presence as a vocal leader for Oklahoma’s 2026 class is expected to galvanize additional commitments, as the Sooners look to build a group capable of contending for SEC titles and playoff runs.

Though Bentley remains focused on finishing his high school career strong, his decision brings early clarity to his recruitment, allowing him to develop chemistry with Oklahoma’s staff and immerse himself in their system well ahead of his arrival on campus.

For Brent Venables and the Sooners, landing Bentley reaffirms their ability to attract premier quarterback talent and positions the program for sustained success in a brutal SEC environment. While questions about Oklahoma’s transition into the league persist, securing a player like Bentley is the kind of foundational move that helps answer them.

“We’re building something special in Norman,” Bentley concluded. “I believe in Coach Venables, I believe in this staff, and I believe in Oklahoma. Let’s go to work.”

With Bowe Bentley’s commitment, Oklahoma football’s future just got a whole lot brighter. And for a fanbase hungry to reclaim national glory, the arrival of their next quarterback sensation couldn’t come at a better time.