In December 2024, the Oklahoma Sooners secured a significant commitment for their 2026 recruiting class by landing Will Conroy, a promising offensive lineman from Cleveland, Ohio. Conroy’s decision to join the Sooners’ program marks a pivotal moment in Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts, as they aim to strengthen their offensive line for the upcoming seasons.
Early Life and High School Career
Will Conroy hails from Cleveland, Ohio, where he attended St. Ignatius High School, a renowned institution known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing approximately 275 pounds, Conroy quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the field. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him a standout offensive lineman, earning him recognition as one of the top prospects in the 2026 recruiting class.
During his high school tenure, Conroy demonstrated exceptional skills in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to read defensive schemes and adjust his play accordingly showcased his high football IQ and adaptability. These attributes not only contributed to his team’s success but also caught the attention of college scouts and recruiters nationwide.
Recruitment Process
Conroy’s recruitment journey was marked by interest from numerous prestigious programs. He received scholarship offers from over 20 universities, including Ohio State, Oregon, Missouri, and Texas A&M. Despite the competitive nature of the recruiting process, Conroy remained focused on finding a program that aligned with his values and aspirations.
In July 2024, Conroy narrowed his choices to five schools: Arizona State, Florida, Miami, Michigan, and Oklahoma. He visited Norman, Oklahoma, during the spring and attended a game against Tennessee, experiences that left a lasting impression on him. Conroy expressed admiration for the passionate fan base and the vibrant college town atmosphere, stating, “I knew when I decided that I wanted to be in a true college town, and Norman encapsulates that.”
The Sooners’ coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, played a crucial role in Conroy’s decision. Conroy appreciated the program’s commitment to player development and the opportunity to compete at a high level. He noted, “When you go to Oklahoma, it starts in the weight room, then on the field you see it happen. Everyone plays for each other. It is really a team and not many programs are like that anymore.”
Commitment to Oklahoma
On December 16, 2024, Conroy announced his commitment to the University of Oklahoma via social media, stating, “Announcing my commitment to The University of Oklahoma ⚪️! To my St. Ignatius Coaches and team, gratitude. @64amdg, thank you for guidance and showing us what ‘great’ looks like. To my parents, sister & family, your support is everything. I found home. Boomer Sooner!”
His commitment was a significant addition to Oklahoma’s 2026 recruiting class, which had previously secured commitments from quarterback Jaden O’Neal and tight end Ryder Mix. Conroy’s decision to join the Sooners was influenced by the program’s culture, coaching staff, and the opportunity to develop his skills at a high level.
Impact on Oklahoma’s Recruiting Class
Conroy’s commitment bolstered Oklahoma’s 2026 recruiting class, which was ranked No. 16 nationally and No. 8 in the Southeastern Conference at the time.
His addition provided the Sooners with a highly regarded offensive lineman who could contribute to the team’s success in the coming years.
The Sooners’ coaching staff, led by head coach Brent Venables, recognized the importance of securing top-tier talent like Conroy to maintain the program’s competitive edge. Conroy’s commitment underscored the coaching staff’s ability to attract and develop elite prospects, reinforcing the program’s reputation for excellence.
Future Outlook
As Conroy prepares to join the Sooners, expectations are high for his development and impact on the field. His combination of size, strength, and technical skills positions him as a potential contributor to Oklahoma’s offensive line. With continued development and guidance from the coaching staff, Conroy has the potential to become a key player for the Sooners in the upcoming seasons.
Conroy’s Playing Style and Strengths
Will Conroy’s commitment to Oklahoma adds a highly promising talent to the Sooners’ offensive line. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 275 pounds, Conroy combines size with impressive technical ability. These physical attributes, along with his versatility, position him as a future cornerstone for Oklahoma’s offensive front.
Conroy’s biggest strength lies in his footwork and hand placement, essential skills for an offensive lineman. His ability to engage defenders with controlled and precise hand placement allows him to gain leverage in blocking situations. Whether blocking for the run game or providing protection in pass scenarios, Conroy has demonstrated consistent success in staying balanced and keeping defenders off his quarterback. In terms of mobility, Conroy displays solid quickness for a lineman of his size, able to reach the second level of the defense and sustain blocks as a run blocker. He also possesses the agility necessary for pass protection, often seen staying in front of edge rushers and maintaining his block until the play concludes.
In terms of his overall blocking style, Conroy thrives in both zone and power schemes. He excels at climbing to the second level and locating linebackers, creating running lanes for his backfield. On the other hand, Conroy also has experience in driving defenders off the line of scrimmage, which will prove invaluable in power-running sets for Oklahoma.
Strength of Conroy’s Mental Game
One of the more intriguing aspects of Will Conroy’s game is his high football IQ. Offensive linemen need to anticipate defensive line movements, communicate with teammates, and adjust quickly to defensive schemes. Conroy has shown that he possesses an understanding of what defenses are trying to do and can adjust his technique to thwart opposing defenders. His ability to read pre-snap movement and make adjustments mid-play is an important attribute that is often overlooked in evaluating high school talent. These skills will serve him well as he enters the high-pressure, fast-paced environment of the Big 12.
In addition to his on-field awareness, Conroy is known for his leadership and competitive nature. He is the type of player who pushes his teammates to be their best while also holding himself to a high standard. His tenacity and work ethic have been commended by coaches and teammates alike, as he is known for being a student of the game and constantly seeking ways to improve. These traits are invaluable in a player who will be asked to help anchor an offensive line that must protect quarterbacks and create rushing lanes in one of the nation’s top conferences.
Impact on Oklahoma’s Offensive Line Development
Will Conroy’s commitment is a significant coup for Oklahoma’s offensive line. Under the direction of offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, the Sooners have a long track record of developing elite linemen capable of excelling at the collegiate and even professional levels. Conroy’s blend of size, skill, and mental acumen makes him an ideal fit for Oklahoma’s offensive line program, and his addition provides the Sooners with a player who can contribute early in his career.
Bedenbaugh is known for molding raw prospects into highly polished athletes who perform at an elite level. Oklahoma’s track record includes producing linemen who have gone on to play in the NFL, such as Orlando Brown Jr., Creed Humphrey, and Tyrese Robinson. This legacy of success undoubtedly played a role in Conroy’s decision, as he looks to develop his game further at a school that has consistently produced top-tier talent.
Looking forward, Conroy has the potential to start early in his career at Oklahoma. The Sooners’ offensive line is always a crucial part of their offensive identity, as the program prides itself on having a powerful, effective front line. With Conroy’s ability to adapt to different blocking schemes and his physicality in the trenches, he should be in the mix for early playing time.
Recruiting Strategy and Future Classes for Oklahoma
Will Conroy’s commitment also speaks to the broader trajectory of Oklahoma’s recruiting strategy under head coach Brent Venables. Venables, who took over as head coach in 2022, has sought to bolster the Sooners’ offensive line through recruiting, and Conroy’s commitment aligns with this vision. Conroy is part of a wave of young, talented recruits that Oklahoma is adding to ensure long-term success on both sides of the ball. In addition to the commitment of Conroy, the Sooners have made waves in the 2026 recruiting cycle by landing high-caliber players at multiple positions, signaling that the program is building something special for the future.
As Venables continues to recruit for the 2026 and 2027 classes, Conroy’s commitment helps set the tone for the type of player Oklahoma is attracting: physical, intelligent, and focused on the team’s success. With the Big 12 continuing to evolve and the Sooners poised to remain in the national conversation, having elite offensive line talent will be a key component to maintaining Oklahoma’s competitive edge.
In terms of future recruiting classes, Oklahoma will look to build on Conroy’s commitment by continuing to pursue offensive linemen who fit the program’s culture of toughness and team-oriented success. By reinforcing the trenches, the Sooners can remain competitive as they chase after conference championships and playoff berths.
A Promising Future at Oklahoma
Will Conroy’s decision to commit to Oklahoma signals a promising future for both the player and the program. The Sooners have a well-established history of success, and by securing a commitment from one of the top offensive linemen in the 2026 class, they continue to position themselves as a major contender in college football.
As Conroy makes the transition from high school standout to collegiate lineman, Oklahoma fans will be watching closely to see how he develops under Bedenbaugh’s guidance. With the right combination of skill development, physical conditioning, and mental growth, Conroy has the potential to become one of the top offensive linemen in the Big 12 and beyond.
For Oklahoma, Conroy’s commitment not only strengthens the offensive line but also sends a message about the program’s ability to compete for top-tier talent. As the Sooners work toward future success, players like Conroy will be instrumental in achieving the program’s goals. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly awaiting to see how Conroy’s career unfolds as he prepares to play a vital role in Oklahoma’s quest for championships.
In the years to come, Conroy’s name may very well become synonymous with the program’s continued dominance in the trenches, contributing to Oklahoma’s enduring legacy of football excellence.