The Oklahoma Sooners have a number of players that could have a breakout season in 2024. Among Sooners freshmen, [autotag]David Stone[/autotag] and [autotag]Jayden Jackson[/autotag] have received a great deal of love this offseason. But another freshman caught the attention of ESPN’s David Hale.
ESPN’s college football analysts picked one player they believed is a “sleeper” for each of the teams in their preseason top 25. For the Sooners, Hale picked former four-star prospect and Oklahoma native [autotag]Danny Okoye[/autotag].
Freshman defensive lineman Danny Okoye arrived in Norman in January and got to work, putting on more than 20 pounds. The 6-3, 255-pound edge rusher has drawn praise from coach Brent Venables this spring for his work ethic and athleticism — he reportedly runs a 4.56 40-yard dash — and as the Sooners try to find a rotation up front, Okoye could claim his share of playing time early on. – Wilson, ESPN
Okoye was a top 150 prospect in the 247Sports composite in the 2024 recruiting class. He was rated as the No. 12 edge rusher in the cycle. He’s an incredible athlete that has great size and speed. He has a chance to make a significant impact with the Sooners.
Oklahoma has been searching for someone to be a difference maker off the edge. [autotag]Ethan Downs[/autotag] has been their most productive pass rusher over the last two seasons. They added Caiden Woullard in the transfer portal. Woullard had 9 1/2 sacks last season for Miami (Ohio). Then there are stars in the making such as [autotag]R Mason Thomas[/autotag] and [autotag]Adepoju Adebawore[/autotag].
Okoye definitely has the tools to earn playing time for the Sooners this year as they continue to search for consistent pass rush productivity.
Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes and opinions. You can also follow John on X @john9williams.