In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has reportedly turned down staggering $7.5 million annual offers from both Texas Tech and Alabama to remain at the helm in Norman. According to an ESPN report released Friday morning, Venables was approached with lucrative, multi-year deals to become the head coach at two of the sport’s most storied — and ambitious — programs. Instead, he chose to remain true to the Sooners, a program he has called home for nearly two decades across two different coaching stints.
This decision is more than just about money. It’s about loyalty, legacy, and leadership. In an era where coaches are often quick to chase the next big payday or a higher-profile position, Venables’ choice to stay planted in Norman is both rare and refreshing. It sends a clear message: he’s building something at Oklahoma, and he’s not done yet.
For weeks, rumors had swirled about Venables being a top candidate in the coaching searches at both Texas Tech and Alabama. Sources close to the situation said Texas Tech was prepared to offer Venables a five-year, $37.5 million contract to replace Joey McGuire, whose tenure in Lubbock was unexpectedly cut short following a string of disappointing seasons and internal discontent. Meanwhile, Alabama — still reeling after the surprise retirement of Kalen DeBoer after just one year — viewed Venables as a stabilizing, culture-driven hire to shepherd the program through its latest transition. After all, he had helped build Clemson’s dynasty as defensive coordinator and had successfully guided Oklahoma into the SEC with back-to-back top-10 recruiting classes and a culture founded on toughness, discipline, and belief.
But Venables, never one to chase the limelight, politely declined both offers.
“I’m humbled by the interest from other programs. It’s flattering, sure,” Venables said in a brief statement released by the University of Oklahoma. “But I came to Oklahoma with a mission — to build a championship program that reflects the values and pride of this university, this state, and its people. We’re not done here. Not even close.”
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Alabama’s interest in Venables intensified after several top boosters and former players lobbied the administration to “prioritize values over flash.” They believed Venables’ detail-oriented, hard-nosed approach could help return the Crimson Tide to their Saban-era standards. After DeBoer’s abrupt exit due to what sources described as “mounting pressure and philosophical differences with the administration,” Alabama was looking for someone with proven SEC familiarity and the charisma to command one of the most high-profile jobs in all of sports.
Venables met with Alabama officials twice over Zoom and reportedly spoke on the phone with multiple decision-makers, including several members of the university’s Board of Trustees. He also had exploratory conversations with Texas Tech representatives, who flew out to Norman to make their pitch in person. Despite their aggressive pursuit, the 53-year-old coach remained unmoved.
Inside the Sooners facility, news of Venables’ loyalty was met with an outpouring of gratitude. Players, alumni, and boosters alike hailed the coach’s decision as one of the most significant moments in recent program history.
“Coach Venables is different,” said defensive back Peyton Bowen. “He’s not just about football. He’s about family, accountability, and making us better men. Knowing he’s staying? That means everything.”
Venables took over as Oklahoma’s head coach in December 2021 following Lincoln Riley’s stunning departure to USC. At the time, many questioned whether the longtime defensive coordinator could handle the demands of running a powerhouse program. Year one brought growing pains — a 6-7 record and a loss in the Cheez-It Bowl to Florida State. But year two showed massive improvement, with the Sooners finishing 10-3 and winning the Alamo Bowl. More importantly, they showed fight, discipline, and a renewed identity on both sides of the ball.
Recruiting has also flourished under Venables. He’s landed back-to-back top-five classes, including a 2025 haul that features elite talent on defense and one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects. Perhaps more significantly, he has reshaped Oklahoma’s culture into one of resilience and brotherhood — attributes that will be crucial as the program transitions into the meat grinder of the