Five Key Takeaways from the Oklahoma Sooners’ Updated 2025 Roster
With the 2025 college football season rapidly approaching, the Oklahoma Sooners have unveiled an updated roster as they gear up for fall camp. Just six weeks remain before their opening game against Illinois State, and while minor adjustments are still possible, this roster largely represents the team that will navigate what many consider a pivotal season.
Following a 6-7 record in 2024, including a 2-6 showing in their inaugural SEC campaign, the Sooners are under immense pressure to improve. Significant changes have been implemented, from new front office personnel to coaching staff adjustments, and a substantial roster overhaul. Here’s a closer look at the five biggest takeaways from Oklahoma’s updated roster.
1. Significant Roster Turnover
The Sooners experienced considerable roster turnover since the end of last season. The team saw 61 players depart due to the transfer portal, NFL draft, expired eligibility, or walk-on departures. To replenish the ranks, Oklahoma added 45 players through high school recruiting, the transfer portal, and walk-on opportunities. This leaves the team with 111 players heading into the fall, comprised of 54 offensive players, 50 defensive players, and seven special teams players.
This high level of roster fluctuation is notable, even in the modern era of college football dominated by NIL deals and the transfer portal. However, given the team’s sub-.500 record last year, this influx of new talent could be viewed as a positive development.
Adding to the narrative of change, only one player from Lincoln Riley’s final 2021 roster remains: veteran wide receiver Major Melson, now a sixth-year senior. This underscores the extent to which the current team reflects Brent Venables’ vision.
2. Spring Additions and Departures
The spring period saw a flurry of activity for the Sooners, with several new faces joining the program. Key offensive additions include running back Jaydn Ott, offensive lineman Jake Maikkula, wide receiver Jer’Michael Carter, and quarterback Whitt Newbauer. Ott, a transfer running back, is arguably the most high-profile addition.
Defensively, the team welcomed defensive lineman Siolaa Lolohea and linebacker Reed DeQuasie via the transfer portal. Late enrollees such as defensive lineman C.J. Nickson and linebackers Marcus James, Elgee Webster, and Barrett Travis also joined the squad. Kicker Tate Sandell, formerly of UTSA, was also signed and could potentially start immediately.
However, the spring also brought departures. Tight end Davon Mitchell, defensive backs Mykel Patterson-McDonald and Peter Schuh, running backs Sam Franklin and Gavin Sawchuk, and offensive lineman Josh Aisosa all entered the transfer portal. Defensive back Jocelyn Malaska initially entered the portal but later withdrew and remains on the roster.
The quarterback position also saw some reshuffling. Cole Gonzales, who joined in the winter and participated in spring practice, re-entered the portal and transferred to Pitt. Gavin Frakes committed to Oklahoma but ultimately signed with Northwestern. As a result, the Sooners enter 2025 with John Mateer, Michael Hawkins Jr., Whitt Newbauer, and Jett Niu as their quarterbacks.
3. Beefing Up the Trenches
One of Venables’ primary objectives upon taking over the program was to revitalize the defense and prepare the team for the physicality of the SEC. This shift in philosophy is particularly evident at the defensive tackle position.
In 2020, under Riley and former defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, Oklahoma’s heaviest defensive tackle weighed 297 pounds. Fast forward to 2025, and the Sooners boast seven defensive tackles exceeding that weight. This increased size and strength are crucial for competing in the SEC’s demanding trench warfare.
The defensive tackle group, featuring players like Jayden Jackson, Damonic Williams, Gracen Halton, and David Stone, is expected to be a significant strength for Oklahoma in 2025. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage will be vital to the team’s success.
4. Searching for Offensive Stars
Quarterback John Mateer and running back Jaydn Ott, both transfer portal additions, are the focal points of Oklahoma’s revamped offense. However, with the departure of several key offensive players through the portal, the Sooners are seeking other players to emerge as stars in Ben Arbuckle’s offense.
Historically, Oklahoma has been known for its offensive firepower, producing four Heisman Trophy winners (Jason White, Sam Bradford, Baker Mayfield, and Kyler Murray) and numerous other All-Americans and all-conference players. While Mateer and Ott are expected to make an impact, the Sooners need other players to step up and contribute to the offensive output.
Behind Ott, the team hopes for a breakout season from homegrown running backs like Jovantae Barnes, Xavier Robinson, or Taylor Tatum. While none are expected to carry the full workload, a reliable backup would be invaluable.
In the passing game, wide receiver Deion Burks is a player to watch, provided he can stay healthy. Jayden Gibson and Javonnie Gibson also have the potential to unlock the offense. Jer’Michael Carter’s addition in the spring provides another physical presence in the red zone. At tight end, the Sooners are looking for Will Huggins or Carson Kent to become reliable targets.
The offensive line features veterans like Troy Everett and Derek Simmons at center and right tackle, respectively. However, there are several intriguing options at all five positions.
5. Time for the 2022 Class to Shine
In 2024, the defense was led by standouts from the 2021 recruiting class, including Danny Stutsman, Billy Bowman Jr., and Ethan Downs. With those players now in the NFL, the responsibility falls to the remaining members of the 2022 recruiting class, Venables’ first as head coach.
Key players from this class include running back Jovantae Barnes, wide receiver Jayden Gibson, tight ends Kaden Helms and Jaren Kanak, and offensive linemen Jacob Sexton and Jake Taylor.
Defensively, the Sooners are counting on defensive linemen Gracen Halton and R Mason Thomas, linebackers Kip Lewis and Kobie McKinzie, and defensive backs Robert Spears-Jennings and Gentry Williams to step into leadership roles. Their decision to remain in Norman underscores their commitment to the program.
Venables is aiming to restore Oklahoma’s defensive prowess, while also ensuring the offense is firing on all cylinders. The success of the 2022 class will be crucial to achieving these goals in the upcoming 2025 season.