The Oklahoma Sooners are reestablishing their focus on a critical aspect of recruiting that resonates deeply with their fan base—prioritizing talent from their home state. Despite a challenging 2024 season, one of the program’s worst in 25 years, the Sooners have still managed to secure a top-12 recruiting class for 2025, even after losing some prospects to other programs. This renewed emphasis on local recruiting marks a significant shift in strategy and has drawn praise from Oklahoma high school coaches and fans alike.
Historically, the Sooners have recruited successfully across the country, securing top talent from various regions. However, their previous efforts in recruiting from Oklahoma itself had waned in recent years, leaving some fans concerned. While it’s true that Oklahoma high school football isn’t as dominant as Texas high school football, it remains a vital pipeline of talent. Many young athletes in the state grow up dreaming of playing for the Sooners, making the local recruiting strategy all the more significant.
Under Head Coach Brent Venables, the Sooners are actively rebuilding those ties with Oklahoma high schools. The current 2025 recruiting class includes six commitments from within the state, a stark improvement from recent years. Notably, three of these players—tight end Trynae Washington, linebacker Marcus James, and cornerback Trystan Haynes—hail from Carl Albert High School, a powerhouse program in the Oklahoma City area.
Mike Dunn, head coach at Carl Albert, acknowledged the change in approach under the new Sooners coaching staff. “I don’t think anyone in Oklahoma, any high school coaches, would deny that this new staff has definitely made a point of getting back into Oklahoma high schools,” Dunn told The Oklahoman. This renewed focus is winning over local coaches and reinforcing the Sooners’ reputation as the flagship football program in the state.
For the Oklahoma fan base, this shift is a welcome development. Players from local high schools often bring a strong sense of pride and connection to the program, as they’ve grown up immersed in the culture and tradition of Sooners football. These recruits tend to become passionate representatives of the team, both on and off the field, which further strengthens the bond between the program and its community.
The inclusion of three recruits from Carl Albert High School underscores the success of this approach. As one of the most respected high school football programs in the state, Carl Albert has consistently produced high-level talent. By prioritizing these local athletes, the Sooners are not only bolstering their roster but also ensuring that their recruiting efforts align with the values and expectations of their fan base.
This renewed commitment to Oklahoma high schools reflects a broader understanding of the importance of local roots in building a strong, cohesive team. While national recruiting remains crucial for competing at the highest levels of college football, maintaining a strong presence in-state can provide a foundation of loyalty, pride, and familiarity that sets the program apart.
In summary, the Oklahoma Sooners are making a concerted effort to reconnect with their local roots in recruiting, a strategy that has been met with widespread approval from fans and high school coaches alike. With six Oklahoma-based recruits in their 2025 class, including standout players from Carl Albert High School, the Sooners are demonstrating their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. This approach not only strengthens the team but also reinforces the deep ties between the program and its community, ensuring that Oklahoma football remains a source of pride for the state.
