Oklahoma Sooners: Among the Top 5 In-State Running Back Prospects for 2025
When it comes to recruiting, the Oklahoma Sooners have long been known for their ability to attract some of the top talent in the country. The state of Oklahoma has produced some exceptional football players over the years, and in 2025, it looks like the Sooners are in prime position to land some of the best in-state running back prospects in the nation. With the Sooners’ historic success, especially in recent seasons, their recruiting prowess has only continued to grow, and the 2025 cycle appears to be shaping up to be another stellar year for head coach Brent Venables and his staff.
Among the key positions that have stood out in Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts are running backs. Historically, the Sooners have always valued a strong, physical running game, and this trend is expected to continue with an exciting crop of in-state running backs emerging. These players possess the talent and skills necessary to make an immediate impact at the college level, and they’re receiving significant attention from top programs across the country, including the Sooners.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 5 in-state running back prospects for the 2025 recruiting class and discuss how the Oklahoma Sooners are positioned to land some of them, or potentially all, to continue their tradition of excellence at the position.
Top 5 In-State Running Back Prospects for the 2025 Class
Oklahoma’s rich football tradition at the running back position stretches back many decades, from Billy Sims and Joe Washington to more recent stars like Adrian Peterson, Samaje Perine, and Kennedy Brooks. As the Sooners continue to develop talent and recruit nationally, it’s no surprise that the state is once again home to some exciting running back prospects. These players have the potential to follow in the footsteps of their predecessors and make their own mark in Norman, Oklahoma.
Let’s break down the top 5 in-state running back prospects in Oklahoma for the 2025 class:
1. Jameson Arnold – Edmond, OK (Edmond Memorial High School)
The top-ranked running back in Oklahoma for the 2025 class is Jameson Arnold, who plays for Edmond Memorial High School. Arnold is a dynamic, versatile back with incredible speed and vision. Standing at 6 feet, 190 pounds, he combines a potent mix of size, agility, and raw speed that makes him a threat both as a runner and as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. Arnold has the breakaway speed to outrun defenders to the edge and the power to push through tackles when needed.
As a sophomore, Arnold had an impressive 1,500+ yards rushing, showcasing his ability to carry the load for his team. His skills as a receiver out of the backfield set him apart from many other running backs in this class, and his ability to make plays in the passing game could prove invaluable in today’s evolving college offenses.
The Oklahoma Sooners have already made a strong impression on Arnold, and it’s clear that they’ll be a major contender in his recruitment. With his ties to the state and his outstanding performance on the field, Arnold has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Sooners’ future backfield.
2. Tyler Davis – Tulsa, OK (Union High School)
Another running back who has garnered significant attention is Tyler Davis from Union High School in Tulsa, OK. Davis has been one of the top performers in the state over the past two years, showcasing his impressive combination of size, speed, and power. At 6 feet, 205 pounds, Davis is a well-rounded back who excels in all aspects of the game.
Davis has the ability to run between the tackles with power, break long runs on the outside, and catch passes out of the backfield. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field and his willingness to fight for every extra yard make him a dangerous threat at all levels. His versatility is one of his standout traits, and it’s what has made him one of the most highly sought-after prospects in the 2025 class.
With Oklahoma State and Oklahoma both vying for his commitment, Davis is likely to stay in-state, making him a key target for the Sooners. His athleticism and overall skill set would complement the Sooners’ fast-paced offense perfectly, and he could see early playing time in the backfield.
3. Nathaniel Hayes – Norman, OK (Norman High School)
Playing for Norman High School, Nathaniel Hayes is another top running back prospect from Oklahoma. Hayes is a highly physical back who excels in short-yardage situations and has the vision and speed to break big plays when given the opportunity. Standing at 5-foot-11, 205 pounds, he’s a strong, durable runner who is difficult to bring down in the open field.
One of the things that stands out about Hayes is his contact balance and ability to fight through arm tackles. He’s also a capable receiver out of the backfield, though his biggest strength remains his ability to push the pile and break tackles. As he progresses into college, his blend of size and speed could make him a valuable asset in a variety of offensive schemes.
The Sooners have been closely monitoring Hayes’ recruitment, and with his ties to the state of Oklahoma, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land in Norman to continue his career. His toughness and grit make him an ideal fit for the Oklahoma running back tradition.
4. Elijah Jones – Oklahoma City, OK (Carl Albert High School)
Elijah Jones, a standout from Carl Albert High School in Oklahoma City, has been turning heads for his explosive speed and agility. Standing at 6 feet tall and 185 pounds, Jones is a playmaking back who thrives in open space. Whether he’s running the ball between the tackles or catching passes out of the backfield, Jones is a versatile weapon who makes defenders miss with his elusiveness.
Jones had a dominant junior season, racking up over 1,200 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field, combined with his speed, makes him an exciting prospect for any program. Jones has also shown an ability to contribute on special teams, making him an even more valuable asset.
The Sooners have expressed interest in Jones, and while he’s also garnered attention from programs across the country, his strong connection to Oklahoma and the state’s football culture makes him a realistic target for the Sooners. With the right development, Jones could become one of the most dynamic backs in college football.
5. Derrick Harris – Mustang, OK (Mustang High School)
The final running back in the top 5 is Derrick Harris, a power back out of Mustang High School. At 6 feet, 220 pounds, Harris is a downhill runner who uses his size and strength to wear down defenders. He’s not the most elusive back, but his sheer power and physicality make him a tough challenge for defenders. Once Harris gets to the second level, it’s difficult for tacklers to bring him down without a full-force hit.
What Harris brings to the table is a workhorse mentality. He’s the type of back who can carry the ball 20-30 times a game and grind out tough yards in critical situations. His ability to break tackles and fight for extra yards makes him an asset in short-yardage situations, and he’s a great fit for a power-run system.
Though Harris might not be as flashy as some of the other backs on this list, his ability to pound the ball and control the tempo of the game could make him a great fit for the Sooners, especially as they continue to develop their run game.
Oklahoma Sooners’ Position in the Running Back Recruitment Landscape
With these top in-state running back prospects coming up in the 2025 class, the Oklahoma Sooners are in a prime position to reload at a key position for the future. With head coach Brent Venables and his staff continuing to focus on building a well-rounded team, the recruitment of running backs is of paramount importance. The Sooners have traditionally featured strong, powerful running backs, and they’ll be looking to continue that legacy in the coming years.
Of the five prospects listed, Jameson Arnold and Tyler Davis are likely the top targets for Oklahoma. Both are considered potential stars at the next level, and the Sooners have the advantage of being the in-state program, which could work heavily in their favor during the recruitment process.