CBS Sports Gives the Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 Freshman Class Excellent Marks
In the ever-evolving world of college football, recruiting is arguably the lifeblood of any program’s success. A team’s ability to bring in top-tier talent directly correlates to its future on the field. For the Oklahoma Sooners, a program with a rich history of success and a powerful brand in college football, recruiting success is never a surprise. However, the 2024 recruiting class stands out, garnering significant praise across the college football landscape. CBS Sports, a leading authority in college sports, has given the Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 freshman class excellent marks, signaling high expectations for the team’s future.
The Sooners, under head coach Brent Venables, are in the midst of a rebuilding phase. Venables took over in 2022, and while the program has had its ups and downs, there has been a noticeable shift toward long-term success rather than short-term results. The 2024 freshman class is seen as a key part of this transformation, and the praise from CBS Sports confirms that the Sooners’ coaching staff is on the right track.
Oklahoma’s 2024 Freshman Class: A Closer Look
The 2024 recruiting cycle was crucial for the Sooners. After losing key players to the NFL Draft and the transfer portal, it was vital that Venables and his staff brought in talent that could not only contribute immediately but also develop into future stars for the program. The class includes a mix of highly-ranked recruits, blue-chip prospects, and a few under-the-radar gems that have the potential to make an impact.
CBS Sports ranks Oklahoma’s 2024 recruiting class as one of the top in the nation, lauding the depth and versatility of the class. With an overall class ranking of No. 5, the Sooners are among the elite in terms of recruiting, competing with powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State. This ranking speaks volumes about the talent that Venables and his staff have been able to bring to Norman.
Key Players in the Class
One of the most intriguing aspects of the 2024 class is the sheer star power it brings to the table. Let’s take a look at some of the standout recruits who are poised to make an immediate impact.
1. Jackson Arnold (QB)
Perhaps the most exciting player in the class is quarterback Jackson Arnold, who has drawn rave reviews from scouts and analysts alike. Arnold, a five-star recruit from Denton, Texas, is a dual-threat quarterback with a cannon for an arm and exceptional mobility. Standing at 6’1″ and 200 pounds, Arnold has the physical tools that make him a prototypical quarterback for today’s college football landscape.
Arnold is a perfect fit for Venables’ offensive philosophy. His ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs gives the Sooners a dynamic quarterback who can make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. He is expected to compete for the starting quarterback position as a true freshman, and many believe he has the potential to be a future Heisman Trophy candidate.
CBS Sports has highlighted Arnold’s maturity and poise, emphasizing his readiness to take on a leadership role despite his age. If he can adjust quickly to the speed of college football, Arnold could be the key to turning the Sooners’ offense into one of the nation’s most potent units.
2. Kendall Dolby (CB)
Another standout recruit for the Sooners is cornerback Kendall Dolby. A four-star prospect from the state of Oklahoma, Dolby is one of the most coveted defensive backs in the country. Known for his excellent coverage skills, speed, and physicality, Dolby is expected to make an immediate impact in the Sooners’ secondary.
Defensive coordinator Ted Roof will likely find multiple ways to use Dolby, as he has the versatility to play on the outside or even in the slot. The Sooners’ defense was a weak point in 2022, and the addition of Dolby could help shore up a unit that has struggled to cover elite wide receivers in recent years. His ability to step in and contribute as a freshman is one of the reasons why CBS Sports views him as one of the top prospects in the 2024 class.
3. Macari Vines (OL)
The offensive line has been an area of concern for the Sooners in recent years, and the 2024 class is set to address that issue. One of the top offensive line recruits in the nation, Macari Vines, is expected to be a key player on the line for the Sooners for years to come. A four-star recruit from St. Louis, Missouri, Vines has the size (6’5″, 315 lbs) and athleticism to contribute early in his career.
Vines’ ability to anchor the line and protect the quarterback will be vital to the success of the Sooners’ offense. With the potential loss of veteran players to graduation or the NFL Draft, Vines will likely be tasked with stepping in and becoming a foundational piece for the Sooners’ offensive line.
4. Jaden Hamm (TE)
Tight end Jaden Hamm is another player who could make an immediate impact. The Sooners have had success utilizing tight ends in the passing game, and Hamm’s skills as a pass catcher and blocker make him a perfect fit for the system. Standing at 6’5″ and 245 pounds, Hamm possesses a combination of size and athleticism that makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
CBS Sports has praised Hamm’s versatility, as he has the ability to line up in a variety of positions and create mismatches. His ability to block on the edge and catch passes in the red zone could make him a go-to target for Jackson Arnold in the coming years.
Oklahoma’s Recruiting Strategy: Building for the Future
The 2024 recruiting class is a result of a strategic effort by Brent Venables and his staff to not only fill immediate needs but also build a team capable of competing for championships in the coming years. One of the key strategies for the Sooners has been to focus on both high-ceiling prospects and players who will fit the culture Venables is building in Norman.
While Oklahoma has always been a powerhouse in terms of recruiting, the move to the SEC has added an extra layer of urgency to the program’s efforts. Venables and his staff have recognized the importance of recruiting elite talent to compete with SEC programs such as Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. The 2024 class is a clear indication that the Sooners are ready to take on that challenge.
Depth Across the Board
In addition to the standout recruits, Oklahoma’s 2024 class is also filled with depth at key positions. The Sooners have added multiple players on both sides of the ball who have the potential to become starters by their sophomore or junior seasons.
On defense, Oklahoma’s coaches have placed an emphasis on bolstering the defensive line and secondary. The Sooners signed several defensive linemen and linebackers who have the size and athleticism to compete at the SEC level. These additions should help the Sooners become more physical up front and improve their pass rush, which has been a point of weakness in recent seasons.
On offense, the Sooners have added multiple skill players, including running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends, all of whom have the potential to contribute immediately. These players will provide depth and competition for the existing roster, ensuring that the Sooners have the talent necessary to keep pace with the best teams in the country.
The Road Ahead: High Expectations for 2024 and Beyond
With the 2024 freshman class in tow, Oklahoma has set itself up for success in the near future. CBS Sports has praised the class for its potential to make an immediate impact, and many believe that the Sooners are on track to challenge for a playoff spot in the coming seasons.
However, the road to championship contention is never easy. Oklahoma will need to continue to develop its young talent and find ways to navigate the rigorous SEC schedule, which will present new challenges for the program. While the 2024 freshman class is a strong foundation, Venables and his staff will need to continue building and improving the roster year after year.
Despite the challenges ahead, the Sooners’ 2024 recruiting class represents a new era for the program. With talent like Jackson Arnold, Kendall Dolby, Macari Vines, and Jaden Hamm, the future of Oklahoma football looks brighter than ever. If these young players can develop as expected, the Sooners will once again be a force to be reckoned with in college football.