Oklahoma Sooners Banking on David Stone’s Breakout in 2025
The Oklahoma Sooners are heading into the 2025 college football season with plenty of excitement and optimism surrounding their roster. While much of the spotlight naturally falls on offensive cornerstone Michael Fasusi, there is another name quickly gaining traction within the program: defensive lineman David Stone. Once a highly-touted recruit with lofty expectations, Stone’s early college career was slower than he envisioned. But heading into this fall, both coaches and teammates insist he’s made the kind of leap that could make him one of Oklahoma’s most impactful players.
A Former Five-Star Still Finding His Footing
Stone arrived in Norman as a prized recruit, rated as a five-star by several services and regarded as one of the top defensive line prospects in the nation. His class—the 2024 group—wasn’t necessarily stacked from top to bottom with elite recruits, but it did feature some gems. One of those was cornerback Eli Bowen, who wasted little time becoming arguably the team’s best defensive back. Stone’s transition wasn’t as seamless, though. His freshman campaign saw him used in rotational duty, a humbling role for a player who had grown accustomed to dominating at the high school level.
That limited role might not have been what he expected when he chose Oklahoma, but it was a reality check. At a program like OU, talent is never in short supply. No matter how many stars are attached to your name, earning snaps takes time, consistency, and development. For Stone, that first year became a building block, and rather than view it as a setback, he used it as motivation.
Growth Through the Offseason
As the Sooners prepared for 2025, word quickly spread about Stone’s transformation. Teammates have noticed his new mindset and his commitment to improving every facet of his game. Fellow defensive lineman Jayden Jackson summed it up best when he described Stone as “most improved” among the group. Jackson pointed out how Stone has excelled not only physically but also mentally, investing time in the film room and working closely with defensive tackles coach Todd Bates to sharpen his football IQ.
“He had a huge jump,” Jackson explained. “The coaches have seen that. His grades have been phenomenal. This season, he definitely wants it. He kind of had an awakening moment. He’s in the film room with Coach Bates the most out of the defensive tackles. He probably knows the most ball out of the group, and it’s just amazing to see that from where he came from last year.”
That “awakening moment” Jackson referenced seems to be the turning point. Instead of dwelling on what didn’t go his way as a freshman, Stone doubled down on effort. His preparation now mirrors that of a veteran, and in doing so, he’s gained the trust of the coaching staff and respect of his teammates.
Stone’s Potential in Venables’ Defense
Head coach Brent Venables has always prided himself on strong defensive play, and the Sooners enter this season with one of the deepest defensive line units in the nation. With a wealth of talent up front, Venables has the luxury of rotating players often, keeping them fresh and relentless over four quarters. That approach is where Stone could truly thrive.
Even if he doesn’t start every game, his ability to disrupt plays in limited snaps could swing momentum in key situations. Venables himself noted the strides Stone has made since last year, emphasizing that the sophomore has “taken another really big step.” For a coach as meticulous as Venables, such praise is significant.
Stone’s physical tools have never been in doubt. He was recruited precisely because of his size, athleticism, and natural strength—traits that translate well to the SEC, where Oklahoma will now battle in the trenches weekly. What has changed, and what excites the Sooners, is how he’s pairing those natural gifts with preparation, film study, and mental discipline. That combination is what turns raw talent into consistent production.
From Depth Piece to Potential Star
Last season, Stone accepted his role as a rotational lineman, something many young players struggle with. In today’s era of the transfer portal, it’s common for players to leave when they don’t play immediately. Stone, however, stayed and embraced the challenge. That decision might prove pivotal not only for his own career but for Oklahoma’s defensive fortunes in 2025.
By sticking it out and working behind the scenes, he’s now on the cusp of becoming a major contributor. The Sooners expect him to be ready for whatever role he’s assigned—whether that means anchoring the defensive front as a starter or stepping up when injuries strike. With the way his offseason has gone, few doubt he’ll rise to the occasion.
Why Stone Matters for the Sooners’ SEC Future
Moving into the SEC places an even greater emphasis on line play. Championships in that league are often won and lost at the line of scrimmage. For Oklahoma to compete immediately, it must field defensive linemen who can go toe-to-toe with the best in the country. Stone represents exactly that type of player. His ceiling is high enough that, if reached, he could become a legitimate NFL prospect down the line.
Venables knows the importance of building depth and development. While stars like Michael Fasusi may command headlines, having players like Stone ready to step up gives the Sooners balance across the roster. It ensures the defense can rotate talent without losing effectiveness, a vital advantage when competing against physical SEC opponents.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As kickoff approaches, confidence in Stone’s potential breakout is spreading throughout Norman. Coaches are encouraged by his work ethic, teammates are impressed by his growth, and fans are eager to see the payoff. The Sooners’ defensive line is already touted as one of the strongest units in the country, and Stone’s emergence could make it elite.
Every season brings surprises, but there is a growing sense that Stone’s development is more than just offseason hype. If he continues on this trajectory, he could be one of the stories of the year for Oklahoma football. What began as a modest role in 2024 could transform into a centerpiece of the defense in 2025.
For Venables and the Sooners, that’s the exact kind of progress they need as they transition into a new era of competition. And for Stone, it’s the chance to prove that patience, resilience, and hard work can indeed pay off.
