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Oklahoma Sooners roster building took multifaceted approach
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- Oklahoma Sooners roster building took multifaceted approach
Roster building in the modern era of college football has taken on a life of its own. Much like the NFL, there's significant roster turnover every offseason in the new era of the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness. For better or worse, teams have to retool every offseason. The Oklahoma Sooners have done a better job than most in one key aspect of roster building. Retention.
The Oklahoma Sooners ' 2026 defense looks like a throwback unit. Not only in terms of talent and physicality, but also from a developmental perspective. And that's the way Brent Venables wants it.
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Looking at the projected starting 11, you won't find a transfer portal player in the bunch. Only Owen Heinecke started his career at another institution, but he was a lacrosse player at Ohio State before walking on at Oklahoma. So he's basically a homegrown guy.
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Taylor Wein, DE
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David Stone, DT
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Jayden Jackson, NT
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Adepoju Adebawore or Danny Okoye, DE
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Kip Lewis, WLB
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Owen Heinecke, MLB
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Reggie Powers, Cheetah
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Eli Bowen, CB
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Peyton Bowen, S
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Michael Boganowski, S
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Courtland Guillory, CB
The only player in the projected starting 11 with less than three years at the University of Oklahoma is Guillory, who was a star at cornerback during his true freshman season and earned freshman All-American honors. The rest of the group has at least three years in the program, and players like Peyton Bowen, Lewis, Heinecke, Adebawore, and Wien are in at least their fourth year with the Sooners.
That's the name of the game.
Yes, the transfer portal exists to supplement your roster. But a look at the two-deep and you won't find many transfers either. In the next 11 there are only four transfers that could see time with the Oklahoma defense. Cole Sullivan, Kenny Ozowalu, Bishop Thomas, and Dakoda Fields.
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Now compare that to the offensive side of the ball, where only four players that were recruited by Venables and his staff out of high school are likely to get the starting nod in week one.
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Michael Fasusi, LT
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Eddy Pierre-Louis, LG
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Jake Maikkula, C
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Heath Ozaeta or Ryan Fodje, RG
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E'Marion Harris, RT
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Hayden Hansen or Rocky Beers, TE
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Parker Livingstone, WR
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Trell Harris, WR
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Isaiah Sategna, WR
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Xavier Robinson or Tory Blaylock, RB
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John Mateer, QB
The Sooners made necessary additions to the offense through the portal over the last two years, revamping a unit that was riddled by injury in 2024 and lost a ton of its depth to the portal after the 6-7 season. The retooling had to happen and the Sooners couldn't wait on development. While the signs of progression were there on defense, the offense was one step forward (2023) and two steps back (2024).
Granted, the offense would have probably looked better in 2025 had Mateer not injured his thumb; still, it's a unit that's been reliant on the transfer portal. Fasusi, Pierre-Louis, Ozaeta, Fodje, and the running backs provide a semblance of Oklahoma's homegrown priority in roster building. Still, it has a way to go to catch up to the defense in that regard.
In an ideal world, both sides of the ball will look like the defense. A team full of players who were recruited out of high school by this coaching staff and front office. It leads to less roster upheaval, and the coaching and front office staff can better project what the lineup will look like from year to year.
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And it'll get there eventually. But until then, Venables and Nagy have done a great job setting this team up for success by acquiring talent through the recruiting ranks and via the transfer portal.
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) hugs linebacker Kip Lewis (10) before the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) runs onto the field before the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Oklahoma's Lloyd Avant (9) celebrates a touchdwon during the University of Oklahoma Sooners Spring Game at the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday April 18, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN, SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Oklahoma's Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field game during the University of Oklahoma Sooners Spring Game at the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday April 18, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN, SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners Sooner Schooner leaves the field after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (bottom right)) takes a photo with the defensive group after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) takes a photo with the quarterback group during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables celebrates celebrates with quarterback John Mateer (10) after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners players and head coach Brent Venables react after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) reacts after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners Casen Calmus (20) makes an interception during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is chased by Casen Calmus (20) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jayden Petit (13) cannot make a catch as defensive back Eli Bowen (23) and defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defend during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Whitt Newbauer (16) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners cheerleader during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is tackled by defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is chased by defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) and defensive lineman Taylor Wein (44) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Reggie Powers III (3) reacts during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman Danny Okoye (16) celebrates with defensive lineman Taylor Wein (44) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) laughs on the sidelines during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners kicker Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field goal during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) is sacked by defensive back Michael Boganowski (25) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners tight ends coach Jason Witten watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Jonathan Hatton Jr (20) celebrates with offensive lineman Michael Fasusi (56) after scoring a touchdown during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Jonathan Hatton Jr (20) scores a touchdown during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Manny Choice (0) battles for the ball with defensive back Trystan Haynes (14) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Elijah Thomas (14) runs with the ball as defensive lineman CJ Nickson (88) defends during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) reacts during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) runs with the ball during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis (10) and defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) react after tackling wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis (10) and defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) tackle wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Eli Bowen (23) nearly intercepts a pass in front of wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) hands the ball off to running back Lloyd Avant (9) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners tight ends coach Jason Witten greets wide receiver Eli Merck (89) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) hugs linebacker Kip Lewis (10) before the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) hugs linebacker Kip Lewis (10) before the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) runs onto the field before the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Oklahoma's under-the-radar fix to the running game revealed
Oklahoma's Lloyd Avant (9) celebrates a touchdwon during the University of Oklahoma Sooners Spring Game at the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday April 18, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN, SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Oklahoma's Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field game during the University of Oklahoma Sooners Spring Game at the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., Saturday April 18, 2026.
(SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN, SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
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Oklahoma 5-star OL commit Cooper Hackett to undergo surgery per report
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners Sooner Schooner leaves the field after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (bottom right)) takes a photo with the defensive group after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) takes a photo with the quarterback group during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Where do the Oklahoma Sooners rank in CBS Sports' post-spring top 25?
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables celebrates celebrates with quarterback John Mateer (10) after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners players and head coach Brent Venables react after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) reacts after the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners Casen Calmus (20) makes an interception during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is chased by Casen Calmus (20) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Stacking Oklahoma's QB pipeline after new commitment
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jayden Petit (13) cannot make a catch as defensive back Eli Bowen (23) and defensive back Peyton Bowen (22) defend during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Whitt Newbauer (16) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners cheerleader during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is tackled by defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) is chased by defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) and defensive lineman Taylor Wein (44) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Reggie Powers III (3) reacts during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman Danny Okoye (16) celebrates with defensive lineman Taylor Wein (44) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Owen Heinecke (38) laughs on the sidelines during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners kicker Tate Sandell (29) kicks a field goal during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) is sacked by defensive back Michael Boganowski (25) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Bowe Bentley (8) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Jason Witten explains why OU's tight end room will be more versatile
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners tight ends coach Jason Witten watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Josh Pate names Oklahoma freshman who could be a 'difference-maker'
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Jonathan Hatton Jr (20) celebrates with offensive lineman Michael Fasusi (56) after scoring a touchdown during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Jonathan Hatton Jr (20) scores a touchdown during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Former 4-Star WR turning heads during Oklahoma's fall camp
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Manny Choice (0) battles for the ball with defensive back Trystan Haynes (14) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Elijah Thomas (14) runs with the ball as defensive lineman CJ Nickson (88) defends during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Oklahoma projected to land three-star back out of Texas
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables watches during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) reacts during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Oklahoma wide receiver Isaiah Sategna snubbed from ESPN's top 10
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Isaiah Sategna III (1) runs with the ball during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis (10) and defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) react after tackling wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis (10) and defensive back Courtland Guillory (4) tackle wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Eli Bowen (23) nearly intercepts a pass in front of wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers (2) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Photos from Oklahoma Sooners 2026 Spring Game
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) hands the ball off to running back Lloyd Avant (9) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Jason Witten earning rave reviews in Year 1 at Oklahoma
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners tight ends coach Jason Witten greets wide receiver Eli Merck (89) during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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Where does Oklahoma land in CBS Sports post-spring bowl projections?
Apr 18, 2026; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) throws during the Oklahoma Spring Game at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj, Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
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This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Oklahoma Sooners roster building took multifaceted approach
