The Oklahoma Sooners may be on the verge of securing their first defensive commitment for the 2026 recruiting cycle. Recently, the Sooners welcomed cornerback Ryan Gilbert to Norman, and following his visit, multiple analysts have predicted that the talented defensive back from Forney, Texas, will choose Oklahoma.
On Monday, Collin Kennedy of Sooners Illustrated and 247Sports released a crystal ball prediction indicating Gilbert’s likelihood of committing to the Sooners. Similarly, Parker Thune from OUInsider and Rivals entered a futurecast projection in favor of Oklahoma on the same day.
Gilbert, though currently rated as a three-star prospect, ranks as the 10th-best nickel cornerback in the 2026 class according to Rivals. Despite his rating, he possesses impressive athletic abilities and competitiveness. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 170 pounds, Gilbert plays with a physicality that exceeds his frame. His speed is a standout trait, and he exhibits a strong ability to perform in man coverage. When employing trail technique, he remains close to his receiver through instinct, enabling him to turn and locate the football to make a play. Additionally, when playing off-coverage, he reacts quickly to the ball and is aggressive in supporting the run. His excellent hand technique allows him to disrupt passes even when it appears that a receiver has secured the catch.
Gilbert has the potential to have an impact similar to Oklahoma defensive back Kendal Dolby, who has emerged as a key player at the cheetah position in Brent Venables’ defensive system. With the current momentum in Gilbert’s recruitment, Oklahoma seems to be the favorite to land him.
Player Highlights For fans wanting to see Gilbert in action, his highlights can be found on Hudl.
Player Profile
Position: Projected Cornerback
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 170 pounds
Hometown: Forney, Texas
Recruiting Rankings The major recruiting sites provide the following ratings for Gilbert:
Rivals: 3 stars, 10th-ranked nickel cornerback, 61st in the state
ESPN: 3 stars (overall and positional rankings not available)
247Sports: 3 stars, 46th-ranked cornerback, 68th in the state
247Sports Composite: 3 stars, 673rd overall, 61st-ranked cornerback, 92nd in the state
On3: 3 stars, 94th-ranked cornerback, 145th in the state
On3 Industry Ranking: 3 stars, 605th overall, 53rd-ranked cornerback, 83rd in the state
Additional Notes
Oklahoma Sooners Spring Practice: The best photos from Tuesday’s practice are available.
College Football Analysts’ Outlook: Experts believe Oklahoma could be a dominant force in 2025.
Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy: Suggests the Bedlam rivalry game should take place in the spring.
ESPN’s Bill Connelly: Predicts the Sooners may be primed for a significant rise in 2025.
Brent Venables’ Expectations: Among coaches with the most to prove, according to On3 Sports.
With recruiting heating up, Oklahoma appears to be in a prime position to add a talented defensive playmaker in Ryan Gilbert. If he commits, his presence could bolster the Sooners’ secondary and enhance their defensive capabilities for years to come.
