A legend of the Oklahoma Sooners has been called an incredible trade candidate.

In the world of college football, few programs boast the kind of history and tradition that the Oklahoma Sooners have built over the last century. Known for their high-powered offenses, legendary head coaches, and iconic players, the Sooners are a staple in the upper echelons of the sport. Among the many legends of Oklahoma football, one player stands out as not only a cornerstone of the program’s success but also a potential key figure in a broader discussion of trade talks in the NFL: Marvin Mims Jr., the Sooners’ dynamic wide receiver who has taken college football by storm.

Mims, a player whose legacy is intertwined with the Sooners’ offensive firepower, has been dubbed by analysts as an incredible trade candidate for the NFL. Although he is currently in the midst of a college career that promises to elevate him to the next level, the conversation about his future in the professional ranks has already begun. A trade involving a player like Mims—who has demonstrated the potential to change the course of a game with one play—could be seismic, both for Oklahoma and for the NFL team lucky enough to acquire him.

But what makes Mims such an attractive trade candidate? Is he a future NFL star, and what does his potential trade tell us about the changing landscape of both college football and the NFL? In this article, we’ll break down why Mims is being considered such a coveted player, not just for his skillset, but for his potential to be a catalyst in a future trade scenario.

The Rise of Marvin Mims at Oklahoma

Marvin Mims Jr. didn’t just break out as a freshman for the Sooners—he exploded. His remarkable performances throughout his early years in Norman catapulted him into the national spotlight as one of the premier wide receivers in the country. As a freshman in 2021, Mims posted over 600 yards receiving and eight touchdowns, showcasing not only his ability to make plays in tight spaces but also his ability to stretch the field and deliver big plays on command.

Mims’ skills didn’t come out of nowhere. He was a highly ranked recruit coming out of high school, and his transition into college football was swift. His route running, deep ball tracking, and ball security were all exceptional for a freshman. Even as a young player, it was clear that he had a very high ceiling. What separates him from many other wide receivers, though, is his innate playmaking ability. Whether it was a clutch catch in a critical moment or a jaw-dropping touchdown grab, Mims quickly earned the respect of his coaches and teammates alike.

The 2022 season saw Mims continue to build on his already impressive foundation. With new leadership under head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, Mims’ role in the offense became even more pronounced. Despite the shake-up in coaching staff, he remained one of the most consistent players on the field, accumulating over 1,000 receiving yards and another 10 touchdowns. His ability to dominate both in the open field and in contested catches made him a go-to target for Oklahoma quarterbacks, and his chemistry with signal-callers only seemed to improve.

Mims’ development as an elite receiver didn’t just come from his physical talent, but his understanding of the game. His ability to read defenses, adjust his routes on the fly, and provide quarterbacks with a reliable target made him an essential part of the Sooners’ offense. But perhaps his most valuable trait is his speed and quickness. Whether running a go route down the sideline or a slant across the middle, Mims has the type of speed that can turn a routine play into a touchdown with a single move.

The Attributes That Make Mims a Trade Candidate

By the time he entered his junior season at Oklahoma, Marvin Mims had solidified himself as one of the top wide receivers in college football. His combination of size (standing 6’0” tall), speed (clocking in at around 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash), and football IQ made him an intriguing candidate for the NFL. While many wide receivers rely on one or two standout skills—such as size or speed—Mims has the rare ability to combine all of these traits into a versatile weapon.

1. Speed and Vertical Threat

Mims is, without a doubt, a deep-ball threat. His top-end speed, combined with his ability to track and catch passes on long routes, has made him a nightmare for defensive backs in college football. He consistently separates from defenders, making him a go-to target on deep balls and long yardage situations. For NFL teams looking for a receiver who can stretch the field, Mims fits that mold perfectly.

2. Route Running and YAC (Yards After Catch) Ability

What separates Mims from some other vertical threats is his ability to turn short routes into big gains. He has a remarkable knack for gaining yards after the catch, something that is often overlooked in discussions of speedsters. His elusiveness in the open field allows him to rack up extra yardage, creating even more opportunities for his team to capitalize on. Additionally, Mims is a highly effective route runner. His ability to create separation and read defenses has made him a reliable target on a variety of routes, not just those deep down the field.

3. Clutch Factor

Mims has proven to be a big-game player throughout his career. Whether it’s catching the game-winning touchdown or coming through in critical moments, he has consistently shown that he’s willing to perform when it matters most. NFL teams value players who can step up in clutch situations, and Mims’ ability to make big plays when his team needs them the most has made him an attractive prospect.

4. Versatility and Scheme Fit

Mims is a versatile player who fits into multiple offensive schemes. Whether it’s a pass-heavy spread offense or a more balanced attack, Mims’ skill set allows him to be effective in almost any system. NFL teams, especially those looking to integrate a high-octane passing attack, will find Mims’ adaptability valuable. His ability to line up both outside and in the slot makes him even more dangerous, providing flexibility for NFL offensive coordinators.

5. High Football IQ and Work Ethic

A major asset in evaluating players is their understanding of the game, and Mims has shown that he’s not only physically gifted but also mentally sharp. His ability to adjust routes based on defensive coverage and his work ethic to continuously improve has set him apart from other players. NFL teams often prioritize players with high football IQ, and Mims is a prime example of someone who can adjust his game at the next level and contribute early on.

Why a Trade Involving Mims Makes Sense

The conversation about a trade involving Marvin Mims is gaining traction because of several factors. First and foremost, the Oklahoma Sooners’ program is entering a period of transition under head coach Brent Venables, which could affect the dynamics of the roster. While Mims’ talent is undeniable, it’s possible that his time at Oklahoma might be nearing an end as he looks to transition into the professional ranks. His junior year could be his final season, meaning the Sooners’ coaching staff may have to field offers for him in order to get value from a potential trade.

In the NFL, teams often value trade opportunities that allow them to build for both the present and the future. Mims’ talent makes him an immediate contributor on offense, but his upside for development means he has significant long-term value. A team in need of an immediate impact player at wide receiver—whether due to injuries, depth issues, or a lack of explosive options—would be hard-pressed to find someone who could make an immediate impact quite like Mims.

1. Teams with Immediate Wide Receiver Needs

Several NFL teams are currently in need of an explosive wide receiver to add to their roster. Teams with established quarterbacks looking to boost their passing game—such as the Miami Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys, or New York Giants—could look to trade for Mims to help solidify their receiving corps. Mims’ deep-ball threat would be an asset for teams that are already strong in other areas but lack that game-breaking ability in the receiving game.

2. A High-Impact Rookie Year

Mims has shown that he has the potential to make an immediate impact at the next level. If an NFL team is looking to rebuild its receiving room or add another weapon to a high-powered offense, a trade for Mims could be a way to accomplish both goals. His talent could complement existing receivers, and his versatility could allow him to fit in seamlessly with different offensive systems.

3. Trade Value vs. Draft Picks

In the NFL, trade candidates are often evaluated in terms of their value relative to potential draft picks. Given Mims’ ability and high upside, he could be a highly valuable trade asset. A team looking to add immediate impact while also positioning themselves well for the future might be willing to offer substantial draft capital in exchange for Mims. This would allow Oklahoma, in turn, to strengthen their recruiting efforts and further develop their roster for the coming seasons.