The Oklahoma Sooners football program has been making significant strides in building a formidable defensive line for the 2026 recruiting class, and one of their most promising targets has been Tavian Branch, a 6-foot-3½, 300-pound defensive tackle from Riverside High School in Taylor, Pennsylvania. Branch, a three-star prospect, has garnered attention from several top-tier programs, including Oklahoma, Rutgers, and Penn State. His recruitment has been closely monitored by college football analysts and fans alike, given his potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.
Branch’s recruitment journey has been characterized by a series of official visits to various programs. In May 2025, he visited Oklahoma, followed by official visits to Rutgers and Penn State in June. These visits were pivotal in shaping his decision-making process, allowing him to experience firsthand the facilities, coaching staff, and campus life at each institution. Despite the allure of Oklahoma’s storied football program and the opportunity to play in the Big 12 Conference, Branch ultimately chose Rutgers. He cited the Scarlet Knights’ consistency and the personal connection he felt with the coaching staff as decisive factors in his commitment. Branch expressed that Rutgers made him feel wanted from the beginning of his recruitment, a sentiment that resonated deeply with him. He also noted that Coach Greg Schiano’s leadership and vision for the program played a significant role in his decision.
While Oklahoma was a strong contender in Branch’s recruitment, the Sooners were unable to secure his commitment. However, the program remains focused on bolstering its defensive line for the 2026 class. The Sooners have already received commitments from several highly regarded prospects, including four-star cornerback Derrick Johnson II. Additionally, they are actively pursuing other defensive linemen to complement their existing commitments. The coaching staff’s emphasis on developing a robust defensive front aligns with the program’s broader strategy to compete at the highest levels of college football.
In conclusion, while the Oklahoma Sooners were projected to land Tavian Branch, the defensive tackle ultimately committed to Rutgers, citing the program’s consistency and the personal connections he developed during his recruitment process. Despite this setback, Oklahoma continues to prioritize strengthening its defensive line and remains a formidable force in the 2026 recruiting cycle. With a strategic approach and a commitment to player development, the Sooners are poised to build a defensive unit capable of competing for championships in the coming years.
