Rush Linebacker
Nik Bonitto is the tip of the spear at the rush linebacker position. The pass-rushing specialist earned nine sacks last season with a pressure rate of 25.7 per Pro Football Focus. But Bonitto cannot play every defensive snap, and behind him is a strong tandem in Marcus Stripling and Caleb Kelly.
Kelly is a fifth-year senior and team captain who rejoins the Sooners after opting out of last season’s campaign. In 2019, he was forced to redshirt after suffering an injury in spring practice. His return in a full-time capacity gives Alex Grinch a leader on the field who can help stabilize the defense.
Marcus Stripling is expected to share a bulk of the reserve snaps with Kelly. But the 6-3, 243-pound edge-rusher has the frame necessary to play traditional defensive end if needed.