As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare for the 2025 college football season, the transfer portal has become a pivotal avenue for addressing roster gaps and enhancing team performance. Following a 6-6 record in the previous season, the Sooners have identified several key positions requiring reinforcement to compete effectively in the upcoming SEC landscape.vistasport.co.ukBVM Sports
1. Quarterback
The quarterback position has undergone significant changes, with former starter Jackson Arnold transferring to Auburn. To solidify the quarterback room, the Sooners secured the commitment of John Mateer from Washington State. In his sole season as a starter, Mateer threw for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns, setting a program record with 15 rushing scores. His dual-threat capabilities are expected to invigorate Oklahoma’s offense.CBS Sports+1Yardbarker+1
2. Wide Receiver
The departure of several wide receivers, including Jaquaize Pettaway, Nic Anderson, J.J. Hester, Jalil Farooq, and Andrel Anthony, has left the Sooners’ receiving corps significantly depleted. To address this void, Oklahoma has targeted experienced receivers like Donaven McCulley from Indiana, who led the Hoosiers in receiving in 2023. Additionally, Josiah Martin’s transfer from California aims to provide immediate impact. These additions are crucial for restoring depth and competitiveness to the wide receiver unit.Heartland SportsHeartland Sports+2Sooners Wire+2BVM Sports+2Yardbarker+1SI+1
3. Offensive Tackle
Inconsistencies and injuries plagued Oklahoma’s offensive line in the prior season, particularly at the tackle positions. The Sooners have actively pursued veteran talent to bolster this area. Notably, Michael Fasusi and Ryan Fodje have been added to provide depth and experience. Incoming freshmen from the top 10 tackle prospects of the 2025 recruiting class are also expected to compete for immediate playing time. These strategic moves aim to enhance pass protection and establish a more formidable offensive front.BVM SportsSooners Wire
4. Tight End
The tight end position has experienced significant turnover, with Bauer Sharp transferring to LSU and Jake Roberts exhausting his eligibility. To rejuvenate this role, the Sooners have recruited tight ends like Will Huggins from Pittsburgh State, who recorded 22 receptions for 395 yards and a touchdown in the previous season. Carson Kent’s transfer from Kennesaw State further adds to the depth, aiming to provide versatile options in the passing and blocking schemes.Off Tackle Empire+11Sooners Wire+11BVM Sports+11
5. Cornerback
The departure of senior cornerback Woodi Washington and Kani Walker has left a gap in Oklahoma’s secondary. Eli Bowen, a rising sophomore, is expected to step up following a breakout season. To strengthen the cornerback position, the Sooners are actively seeking experienced players who can contribute immediately, aiming to improve a passing defense that ranked 43rd nationally, allowing 203.2 yards per game.Yardbarker+1SI+1SI+1Yardbarker+1
6. Defensive Tackle
While the defensive tackle position boasts returning players like Damonic Williams, Gracen Halton, and Jayden Jackson, there is room for additional reinforcement. The Sooners are exploring options to add another pass-rushing presence, enhancing their interior defensive line’s effectiveness. This strategic move aims to disrupt opposing offenses and solidify the defensive front.Yardbarker
7. Linebacker
The linebacker corps faces challenges with the departure of All-American Danny Stutsman and the transfers of Dasan McCullough and Lewis Carter. However, veterans Kobie McKinzie and Kip Lewis remain, providing experience and leadership. To deepen the unit, the Sooners have added Kendal Daniels from Oklahoma State, bringing valuable experience. Recruiting efforts continue to identify linebackers who can contribute immediately, aiming to restore depth and competitiveness to the position.Yardbarker+1SI+1
8. Safety
The safety position is a relative strength for the Sooners, with Robert Spears-Jennings and Peyton Bowen returning. Spears-Jennings led the nation with four forced fumbles in the previous season, while Bowen contributed 33 tackles. While the depth is solid, the coaching staff remains vigilant in monitoring the transfer portal for opportunities to enhance the secondary further.vistasport.co.uk+10Yardbarker+10SI+10SI+1Yardbarker+1
9. Defensive End
To bolster the defensive end position, the Sooners secured a commitment from Marvin Jones Jr. from Florida State. Jones’s addition is expected to provide a significant boost to Oklahoma’s pass rush, contributing to a more formidable defensive front. SI+2Yardbarker+2Tomahawk Nation+2
10. Special Teams
While specific details on special teams’ personnel changes are limited, the Sooners’ coaching staff acknowledges the importance of this phase of the game. Strategic evaluations and adjustments are ongoing to ensure that special teams contribute effectively to the team’s overall success.
The Oklahoma Sooners’ proactive approach in the transfer portal reflects a strategic effort to address roster deficiencies and position the team for success in the 2025 season. By targeting key positions such as quarterback, wide receiver, offensive tackle, tight end, cornerback, defensive tackle, linebacker, safety, defensive end, and special teams, the Sooners aim to build a balanced and competitive roster capable of meeting the challenges of the SEC. As the transfer portal landscape continues to evolve, Oklahoma’s coaching staff remains committed to adapting and securing talent that aligns with the program’s championship aspirations.
