Oklahoma Sooners Emerge as ESPN’s Biggest Offseason Winners, Poised for a Transformative 2025 Season
The Oklahoma Sooners have undergone a remarkable transformation during the 2025 offseason, positioning themselves as one of ESPN’s biggest winners heading into the new season. From strategic coaching decisions to impactful player acquisitions, the Sooners have addressed key areas of concern and are now poised for a resurgence in both football and softball.
Under the leadership of head coach Brent Venables, the Sooners have established a culture of discipline and competitiveness. Venables, entering his third season, emphasized the importance of experience and depth within the team. He noted that this has been the most competitive offseason they’ve had, with a significant number of players entering their third year in the program, contributing to a stable and strong environment .
The defense has seen significant improvement, highlighted by the emergence of freshmen Jayden Jackson and Eli Bowen. Jackson, a true freshman defensive tackle, became the first to start a season opener for Oklahoma since 2001, recording 28 tackles and two sacks. Bowen, despite being undersized, showcased his skills with a season-high eight tackles against Texas and an interception against Alabama, earning ESPN Freshman All-American honors .
Offensively, the Sooners have made significant strides by leveraging the transfer portal. They brought in 19 transfers, including quarterback John Mateer from Washington State, who led the FBS with 44 total touchdowns last season. Additionally, running back Jaydn Ott from Cal and offensive lineman Jake Maikkula from Stanford were added to bolster the offense. The wide receiver corps was revamped with the addition of Jer’Michael Carter from McNeese, replacing six departing receivers .
A key factor in the Sooners’ offseason success is their returning production. They return 69% of their overall production, ranking them among the top teams nationally. Notably, they return 78% of their offensive production, the highest in the SEC, providing a solid foundation for the upcoming season .
Looking ahead, the Sooners have secured a top 10 recruiting class for 2025, ranked No. 7 by ESPN. This class includes ESPN 300 wide receivers Elijah Thomas and Gracen Harris, signaling a continued commitment to excellence and depth in their roster .
In softball, the Sooners continue to dominate under head coach Patty Gasso. With a 48–7 record and SEC regular-season and tournament co-championships, they have maintained their elite status. Their seamless transition into the Southeastern Conference further solidifies their position as a powerhouse in college softball .
The Oklahoma Sooners’ strategic moves during the 2025 offseason have set the stage for a transformative season. With strengthened leadership, enhanced talent, and a solid foundation, both the football and softball programs are poised to achieve significant success. As they enter the new season, the Sooners are not just participants—they are contenders, ready to make a lasting impact on the national stage.
