By worldlive 
So sad: at the end! Oklahoma Sooners lose speed-demon in the transfer portal to group of five school” after so much effort to tie him down…
The Oklahoma Sooners have experienced significant roster changes through the transfer portal, with notable departures and strategic additions shaping their lineup for the upcoming season.
Key Departures:
Jackson Arnold (Quarterback): A former five-star recruit, Arnold entered the transfer portal earlier this month and has since committed to Auburn. During his tenure at Oklahoma, he accumulated 1,421 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and three interceptions over ten games in the 2024 season. His departure leaves a notable gap in the quarterback position.
Wide Receivers: The Sooners have seen a significant exodus at the wide receiver position, with five players entering the transfer portal: Jalil Farooq, J.J. Hester, Nic Anderson, Jaquaize Pettaway, and Anthony. This mass departure necessitates a strategic approach to replenishing the receiving corps.
Strategic Additions:
In response to these departures, Oklahoma has been proactive in the transfer portal, securing commitments from several players to bolster their roster:
Jacob Ulrich (Punter, Kennesaw State): Ulrich, a freshman standout, averaged 46 yards per punt and led the FBS in punting yards. His addition addresses the special teams unit, bringing reliability to the punter position.
Luke Baklenko (Offensive Lineman, Stanford): With over 1,000 snaps at right tackle, Baklenko brings experience and depth to the offensive line, a critical area for protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game.
Javonnie Gibson (Wide Receiver, Arkansas-Pine Bluff): Gibson had a breakout season with 70 receptions, 1,215 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns. Standing at 6-foot-3, he adds size and playmaking ability to the receiving corps, aiming to fill the void left by departing receivers.
Keontez Lewis (Wide Receiver, Southern Illinois): Lewis recorded 49 catches for 790 yards and five touchdowns last season. His addition provides further depth and experience to the wide receiver position.
Derek Simmons (Offensive Lineman, Western Carolina): Simmons’ commitment adds further depth to the offensive line, enhancing the team’s ability to protect the quarterback and establish the run game.
Ongoing Recruitment Efforts:
The Sooners are actively pursuing additional talent to address key positions:
Defensive Backs: With the graduation of key players and others entering the transfer portal, Oklahoma is seeking impact players to strengthen their secondary.
Wide Receivers: In light of recent departures, the coaching staff is targeting receivers like Reggie Virgil from Miami (OH) to replenish the depth chart and maintain offensive versatility
The Oklahoma Sooners are navigating a transformative period, marked by significant player turnover through the transfer portal. The departure of key players, including quarterback Jackson Arnold and multiple wide receivers, presents challenges that the coaching staff is addressing through strategic acquisitions and targeted recruitment. The success of these efforts will be pivotal in shaping the team’s performance in the forthcoming season.