prior to his junior year at Cleveland St. Ignatius High School, Will Conroy, a 2026 interior offensive lineman (IOL), narrowed down his list of potential college destinations to Arizona State, Florida, Miami, Michigan, and Oklahoma. After taking visits to several campuses, Conroy made his commitment to the University of Oklahoma, citing a strong connection with the program and its culture. His initial trip to Norman, Oklahoma, during a spring practice stood out, but it was his second visit, which coincided with the Sooners’ home game against Tennessee, that solidified his decision.
According to Conroy, the atmosphere in Norman was exceptional, describing it as one of the best in the country. The environment played a significant role in his commitment, as he emphasized his desire to be part of a genuine college town, which Oklahoma’s passionate fan base epitomized. “The fan base is passionate about Oklahoma, and I love it there,” Conroy explained, further detailing how he felt an immediate connection to the program.
Conroy, standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 275 pounds, expressed that Oklahoma’s emphasis on teamwork and unity was a key factor in his decision. The culture at the program, he noted, is focused on playing for each other, a quality that he believes has become rare in modern college football. He felt that the Sooners not only understand who they are but also remain true to their identity, something he deeply respected. Conroy was impressed by the tradition and history of the program, which he experienced firsthand when visiting the facilities.
A major influence on Conroy’s choice was Oklahoma’s offensive line coach, Bill Bedenbaugh. Bedenbaugh has been with the Sooners since 2013, after coaching at various schools, including Iowa, Texas Tech, Arizona, and West Virginia. Under his leadership, Oklahoma has produced numerous successful offensive linemen who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL. Conroy recognized the opportunity to develop under Bedenbaugh’s tutelage, particularly as a center. Conroy admired the track record of players who have thrived under Bedenbaugh, such as Creed Humphrey, who signed one of the highest contracts for a center in the NFL.
“I realized the development under coach Bedenbaugh and I don’t see a better place to be developed than at Oklahoma under him,” Conroy said. “Coach B has a proven track record. Look at the guys he has developed and the money they are making now in the NFL.” For Conroy, the decision to commit to Oklahoma also came with the realization that playing under Bedenbaugh would give him the best chance to reach his full potential as a football player and eventually play at the next level.
Conroy also appreciates Bedenbaugh’s coaching style. He described the coach as someone who will challenge his players and push them to succeed, both physically and mentally. “Coach B will get on you, he will push you, and he is the kind of coach I want to play for. He is about development,” Conroy said. The emphasis on the little details and the development of each player appealed to Conroy, especially with Oklahoma’s new offensive coordinator and the high-powered offense that will help elevate his skills.
Another factor in Conroy’s decision was the leadership of head coach Brent Venables. Venables, who had a long history with Oklahoma as a linebackers coach and defensive coordinator before taking on the role of head coach, is known for his passion and intensity. Conroy expressed admiration for Venables, calling him one of the most passionate individuals he has ever met. “Coach Venables is all about passion,” Conroy said. “He has great intensity, he wants to win, and he will be a part of Oklahoma’s success.”
Conroy was drawn to Venables’ deep love for the game and his dedication to the program. He believes Venables’ care for the people involved in the program and his commitment to the team’s success makes him a great leader for the Sooners. “Coach Venables cares about the program, he cares about the people in the program, and nobody wants Oklahoma to succeed more than Venables,” Conroy added, reinforcing the strong connection he felt with the coach.
In making his commitment, Conroy has expressed confidence in his decision to join Oklahoma. The combination of the program’s rich history, the team-oriented culture, the opportunity for personal development under Coach Bedenbaugh, and the leadership of Coach Venables all played a significant role in his choice. Conroy’s commitment to the Sooners signals his belief that the program will provide him with the tools and environment needed to succeed at both the collegiate and professional levels. As Conroy looks toward his future at Oklahoma, he is excited to contribute to the program’s continued success and grow under the guidance of some of college football’s best coaching minds.
