The Oklahoma football depth chart is always a hot topic among Sooners fans and college football experts. With the 2025 season approaching, the team is gearing up for a fresh campaign under the leadership of head coach Brent Venables. The Sooners are looking to make a big statement in their final season before fully transitioning into SEC competition, and the depth chart reveals how strong and prepared they are for the challenge ahead.
In this article, we’ll break down the entire Oklahoma football depth chart position by position. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a sports analyst, or just getting into college football, this easy-to-understand guide will give you the insights you need.
Quarterbacks: Competition Breeds Excellence
The quarterback position is always in the spotlight, and this season is no different.
1. Jackson Arnold – Sophomore
Arnold is set to lead the offense after an impressive freshman campaign as the backup. He’s mobile, accurate, and has a high football IQ. With another year under his belt, Arnold is expected to shine in 2025.
2. General Booty – Junior
Booty brings valuable experience and a cool presence in the pocket. He’s likely the backup, but he’s capable of stepping in if needed.
3. Michael Hawkins Jr. – Freshman
One of the most talked-about recruits, Hawkins is a dual-threat QB with big-time potential. Expect him to develop behind Arnold and Booty this season.
Running Backs: A Loaded Backfield
1. Jovantae Barnes – Junior
Barnes is the clear starter. His vision, patience, and power make him a top running back in the Big 12 (and soon the SEC). He’s expected to carry a big load this year.
2. Gavin Sawchuk – Sophomore
Sawchuk offers a different look with his breakaway speed. He’ll split snaps with Barnes and bring a one-two punch to the Sooners’ backfield.
3. Taylor Tatum – Freshman
One of the top RB recruits in the country, Tatum has the tools to make an impact early, especially in short-yardage and red zone situations.
Wide Receivers: Speed and Size
X Receiver
- Jalil Farooq – Senior
A trusted target with strong hands and route running. He’s the go-to wideout this season.
Z Receiver
- Nic Anderson – Junior
Anderson had a breakout year in 2024. He’s tall, fast, and a major deep threat.
Slot Receiver
- Gavin Freeman – Junior
Freeman is the utility man. Quick in and out of cuts, he’s perfect for slot routes and jet sweeps.
Backups to Watch:
- Andrel Anthony (Senior) – Returning from injury. Could regain a starting spot.
- LV Bunkley-Shelton (Senior) – A reliable possession receiver.
Tight Ends: Blocking and Receiving Threats
1. Blake Smith – Senior
Smith is the most experienced TE, known for his blocking and short-yardage catches.
2. Kade McIntyre – Sophomore
McIntyre has great hands and may see more snaps in passing formations.
Sleeper Pick: Davon Mitchell (Freshman) – Elite talent, could sneak into the rotation by midseason.
Offensive Line: Strength Up Front
Oklahoma’s success often depends on its offensive line play. This year’s unit looks strong.
- Left Tackle: Cayden Green (Sophomore)
- Left Guard: Jake Taylor (Junior)
- Center: Troy Everett (Senior)
- Right Guard: Nate Anderson (Senior)
- Right Tackle: Tyler Guyton (Senior)
Key Depth:
- Jacob Sexton and Savion Byrd will rotate in and keep the line fresh.
This line combines youth and veteran leadership—great news for QB protection and run blocking.
Defensive Line: Power and Pressure
Coach Venables is known for defense, and the defensive line is shaping up to be elite.
- DE: R Mason Thomas (Junior)
- DT: Da’Jon Terry (Senior)
- NT: Isaiah Coe (Senior)
- DE: Ethan Downs (Senior)
Rotation Players:
- Adepoju Adebawore (Sophomore) – Freak athlete, huge upside.
- Kelvin Gilliam (Junior) – Strong run defender.
This front four can bring the heat while holding the line against the run.
Linebackers: Fast and Physical
The Sooners are stacked at linebacker with a mix of experience and youth.
Mike Linebacker
- Danny Stutsman – Senior
Team captain and emotional leader. Stutsman reads plays quickly and always finds the ball.
Will Linebacker
- Kip Lewis – Junior
Quick, instinctive, and solid in coverage.
Sam Linebacker / Edge
- Dasan McCullough – Junior
Hybrid edge rusher/linebacker. A weapon in both pass rush and zone schemes.
Depth Options:
- Jaren Kanak, Kobe McKenzie, and Phil Picciotti – All can step in without a drop-off.
Secondary: Versatility and Aggression
A revamped group that mixes returning talent with new additions.
Cornerbacks
- Gentry Williams – Junior
Locked down top receivers last season. Elite speed and recovery ability. - Kani Walker – Senior
Long, physical corner who plays well in press coverage.
Safeties
- Billy Bowman Jr. – Senior
Leader in the secondary, strong tackler and ball hawk. - Reggie Pearson – Senior
Hard hitter with plenty of starting experience.
Nickel/Hybrid DB
- Peyton Bowen – Sophomore
One of the best young defenders in the country. Will play multiple roles.
Backups to Note:
- Makari Vickers, Robert Spears-Jennings, and Josiah Wagner are all capable contributors.
Special Teams: Reliable and Ready
Kicker
- Gavin Marshall – Junior
Strong leg, reliable from 40+ yards.
Punter
- Tommy Craig – Freshman
Has shown impressive hang time and accuracy.
Return Game
- Gavin Freeman and Jalil Farooq will handle most return duties. Expect some explosive plays.
Coaching Impact: Brent Venables’ Vision
This is Coach Brent Venables’ third year, and the roster now reflects his vision. He’s built a team based on toughness, speed, and intelligence. The depth chart shows players who not only fit the scheme but have also bought into the culture.
Venables and his staff, including OC Jeff Lebby and DC Ted Roof, have emphasized versatility and development. That’s clear when looking at how many underclassmen are already contributing.
Key Takeaways from the 2025 Oklahoma Football Depth Chart
- Quarterback Jackson Arnold is the future—and the present.
- Running back depth is elite, with Barnes and Sawchuk leading the charge.
- Wide receiver room is dynamic, with size, speed, and experience.
- Defense is loaded with playmakers, especially in the front seven.
- Special teams are solid, giving Oklahoma an edge in close games.
- Depth is the strength—injuries won’t derail this team like in past years.
What This Means for 2025
The 2025 Oklahoma football depth chart points to a team ready to dominate. With strong leadership, promising young talent, and experience in key spots, the Sooners are not just contenders in the Big 12—they’re poised for a national run.
Expect Oklahoma to be in the College Football Playoff conversation throughout the season. The Sooners have built a roster that can compete with the best, and fans should be excited about what lies ahead.
Final Thoughts
The Oklahoma football depth chart for 2025 shows a team that’s deep, talented, and well-coached. Whether you’re following for fantasy football insight, scouting, or just Sooners pride, this breakdown gives you the full picture.
From Jackson Arnold at quarterback to Stutsman anchoring the defense, every position group offers both starters and reliable backups. That’s the formula for a championship run.
Stay tuned as the season gets underway—and prepare for what could be one of the most exciting years in Oklahoma football history.
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