Tight end looms as major question mark for Sooners.

Tight end looms as major question mark for Sooners…….. As the Oklahoma Sooners gear up for the 2025 spring football season, the tight end position stands out as a significant area of focus and uncertainty. The departure of key players and the integration of new talent have left the coaching staff with the challenge of reshaping this crucial component of their offensive strategy.

Departures and Transfers

The tight end room has experienced notable turnover. Austin Stogner, a veteran presence and primary contributor in the previous season, has graduated, leaving a leadership void. Additionally, Blake Smith has transferred to Texas State, and Jason Llewellyn has moved to Texas Tech, further depleting the experienced ranks. Perhaps most impactful is the transfer of Bauer Sharp to LSU. Sharp, who joined the Sooners from Southeastern Louisiana, was expected to be a cornerstone of the tight end unit. His decision to enter the transfer portal and subsequently commit to LSU on December 13, 2024, was a significant blow to the team’s plans.

Current Roster and New Additions

In response to these departures, the Sooners have been active in both recruiting and the transfer portal to replenish the tight end position. The current roster features a mix of returning players and new faces:

• Davon Mitchell: A highly touted four-star recruit who reclassified to join the 2024 class. Despite a challenging freshman year, where he focused on acclimating to the collegiate level and refining his physicality, Mitchell has shown promise. Coaches have praised his development during bowl game practices, indicating potential for a breakout season in 2025.

• Jake Roberts: A redshirt senior transfer from Baylor, Roberts brings experience and a proven track record. His familiarity with Big 12 competition is expected to be an asset.

• Kade McIntyre: A redshirt freshman with potential, McIntyre will be looking to make his mark this season.

• Kaden Helms: A redshirt sophomore who has been with the program and is anticipated to compete for playing time.

The coaching staff, led by co-offensive coordinator and tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley, faces the task of integrating these players into a cohesive unit. The blend of youth and experience presents both opportunities and challenges as the team seeks to establish reliability and production from the tight end position.

Offensive Scheme and Tight End Utilization

The arrival of offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle introduces a new dynamic to the Sooners’ offensive scheme. Arbuckle’s system, previously implemented at Washington State, did not heavily feature tight ends, with the leading tight end in 2023 receiving only 26 targets.

This raises questions about how prominently tight ends will be utilized in Oklahoma’s offense moving forward.

However, the presence of versatile players like Davon Mitchell and Jake Roberts provides Arbuckle with options to adapt his scheme to the available talent. The spring practices will be crucial in determining how these players fit into the offensive game plan and how their skills can be maximized to benefit the team’s overall performance.

Recruiting and Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the Sooners have been proactive in recruiting to address the tight end position. The 2025 recruiting class includes prospects aimed at bolstering depth and competition within the unit. The coaching staff’s emphasis on securing talent from Oklahoma and Texas reflects a strategic approach to building a robust roster.

The upcoming spring transfer portal window, opening on April 16, presents another opportunity for the Sooners to assess and potentially enhance their tight end corps. While the current roster includes promising talent, the addition of a seasoned player could provide immediate impact and mentorship for the younger members of the group.

Conclusion

The tight end position for the Oklahoma Sooners in the 2025 season is at a pivotal juncture. With significant departures and the infusion of new talent, the spring practices will be essential in evaluating the current roster and integrating the tight ends into the offensive scheme effectively. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt and develop this group will play a crucial role in the team’s success as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.