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Oklahoma State's Defensive Line Might Be the Biggest Strength on the Entire Team
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- Oklahoma State's Defensive Line Might Be the Biggest Strength on the Entire Team
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
Entering the 2026 season, Oklahoma State has plenty of reasons for optimism.
The Cowboys have a new quarterback.
A completely revamped offense.
An experienced secondary.
After hearing veteran defensive end Jaleel Johnson discuss this year's roster though, I think one position group deserves even more attention.
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The defensive line.
Johnson, who returns for his fifth season in Stillwater after missing most of last year with a shoulder injury, recently said he believes the defensive line is the deepest position group on Oklahoma State's roster. He didn't just point to the starters—he emphasized that the Cowboys can rotate multiple players without seeing a drop-off in production.
That's a significant statement coming from someone who's been in the program through multiple coaching staffs.
Honestly, I believe him.
One of the biggest problems Oklahoma State faced during last season's disappointing campaign wasn't simply talent—it was wearing down as games progressed.
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Depth solves that.
When defensive linemen can rotate freely, they're fresher in the fourth quarter. Pass rushers maintain their explosiveness, and run defenders don't have to play 70-plus snaps every week.
That's exactly what Eric Morris and his staff appeared determined to fix when they rebuilt the roster.
This group also benefits from experience.
Johnson provides veteran leadership, but he isn't carrying the entire load himself. Oklahoma State has assembled a room capable of creating competition throughout fall camp, something every successful program strives for.
Johnson is also one of the few players who experienced last season's struggles firsthand. While the Cowboys finished 1-11, the defense showed signs of improvement late in the year after Clint Bowen took over as interim defensive coordinator. In fact, many Oklahoma State fans hoped Bowen would remain in that role after the season because of the progress the unit made. Johnson's confidence in this year's defensive line only reinforces the belief that the Cowboys can continue building on that late-season momentum in 2026.
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Competition produces consistency.
Consistency wins football games.
I've written several times this offseason that Oklahoma State shouldn't be judged by last year's 1-11 record because so much has changed.
This is another example.
The Cowboys aren't relying on one or two stars to rescue the defense.
They're building a rotation.
That's how elite defensive fronts operate.
Will the defensive line ultimately prove to be the deepest position group on the roster?
We'll find out soon enough.
If Johnson's assessment is accurate, Oklahoma State may have quietly assembled one of the Big 12's most underrated strengths.
If the Cowboys exceed expectations this fall, don't be surprised if it starts up front.
