Oklahoma football received a significant boost over the weekend when five-star defensive lineman David Stone decided to remain with the Sooners after initially entering the NCAA transfer portal. Stone, a former top-tier recruit from the Class of 2024, had previously announced his intention to leave the program, which sent shockwaves through the Oklahoma fanbase and college football circles. However, his unexpected reversal marks a major win for head coach Brent Venables and the Sooners’ defensive unit heading into the new season.
David Stone officially withdrew his name from the transfer portal on Sunday, April 20, a move that was first reported by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports and 247 Sports. The development is a game-changer for Oklahoma, as Stone was regarded as the top available defensive player in the portal at the time. His initial departure had been seen as a huge blow to the program, especially considering his five-star pedigree and the potential that led the Sooners to aggressively recruit him out of high school.
Stone arrived at Oklahoma last year as one of the premier defensive tackle prospects in the nation. Ranked among the top five at his position in the Class of 2024, his commitment was seen as a major recruiting victory for the Sooners, helping to bolster their defensive line for the future. While his freshman season didn’t produce eye-popping statistics—he recorded just two tackles for loss and one sack—his upside remained undeniable. The Sooners and their fanbase still viewed him as a foundational piece for the defense moving forward.
Despite his relatively quiet performance on the field in 2024, Stone’s name still carried significant weight in the college football world. His presence alone commanded respect from opposing offenses, and analysts saw him as a player on the verge of breaking out. His decision to enter the portal on Friday quickly made headlines, and he was almost immediately linked to major programs such as the University of Miami, who were reportedly interested in acquiring his services. Stone’s NIL valuation, projected by On3 to be just under $1 million, only added to the buzz surrounding his availability.
The reasons behind Stone’s sudden change of heart haven’t been made public, and the details surrounding his brief portal stint remain somewhat murky. Whether it was due to conversations with Oklahoma coaches, changes in potential opportunities elsewhere, or personal reflection, what matters now is that he’s back in Norman and recommitted to the Sooners. For a team looking to rebound after a disappointing 6-6 regular season and a bowl loss to Navy in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, retaining a player like Stone could serve as a turning point.
Stone’s return is crucial not just because of his talent, but also because of what he represents for the program. In today’s college football landscape, player movement through the transfer portal has become increasingly common, with programs constantly at risk of losing elite talent. Oklahoma’s ability to convince Stone to stay, especially when he was viewed as the top defensive player available in the portal, reflects a level of resilience and commitment from the coaching staff. It also signals to other players—both on the roster and prospective recruits—that the Sooners are still building something strong.
For Stone, staying at Oklahoma provides another opportunity to develop within Brent Venables’ defensive system. Venables, known for his defensive acumen dating back to his days at Clemson, is widely respected for his ability to mold young defenders into top-tier players. Stone now has a chance to refine his technique, increase his production, and establish himself as a dominant force on the interior defensive line. With another full offseason in the program and the motivation that comes from being counted on as a leader, he could very well take a major step forward in 2025.
Looking ahead, Stone is expected to play a central role in Oklahoma’s defensive strategy. The team needs to rebuild its defensive identity after an up-and-down 2024 campaign, and having a former five-star tackle anchoring the line gives them a reliable piece to build around. His size, strength, and explosiveness make him a natural disruptor in the trenches, and with another year of experience under his belt, the expectation is that he’ll start converting potential into production.
From a team morale standpoint, Stone’s recommitment could have ripple effects. His return sends a message that Oklahoma is still a destination for top talent—even when adversity strikes. The emotional impact of nearly losing a cornerstone player, only to get him back days later, could energize the locker room and reassert the team’s focus during spring and summer workouts.
Moreover, Stone’s decision could influence other transfer decisions. It wouldn’t be surprising if other players now reconsider their options, especially those with relationships to Stone or similar situations. For Oklahoma, keeping a talent like him in-house is a reminder that while recruiting stars are important, retaining and developing those stars can be just as vital in the current college football climate.
In the big picture, Oklahoma’s offseason just got a whole lot brighter. The return of David Stone provides stability on the defensive front, optimism for the coaching staff, and renewed excitement for fans eager to see the Sooners return to prominence. While there’s still work to be done to improve from last season’s mediocre results, having a player of Stone’s caliber stay on board makes that journey a bit more promising.
In conclusion, David Stone’s decision to withdraw from the transfer portal is a major win for the Oklahoma Sooners. Though his freshman year wasn’t dominant on the stat sheet, his ceiling remains sky-high, and his loyalty to the program during a time of uncertainty speaks volumes. As the Sooners prepare for the 2025 season, they do so with a reinvigorated defense—and a renewed belief that the best is yet to come.
