The Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 freshman class receives high marks from CBS Sports, showcasing strong potential and future success.
The Oklahoma Sooners’ athletic programs have long been a symbol of excellence, whether on the gridiron or in the realm of college softball and basketball. As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes are turning to the future, and specifically to the new talent that is entering the program. According to CBS Sports, the Oklahoma Sooners’ 2024 freshman class has received high marks, showcasing immense potential that could bolster their chances for future championships. This recognition from one of the leading sports media outlets signifies not just the talent coming into Norman but also the continued strength and success of the Oklahoma athletic department under head coach Lincoln Riley (football) and other program leaders.
In this article, we’ll break down why the 2024 Oklahoma Sooners’ freshman class has been rated so highly, examine key players and their potential impacts, and explore how this group fits into Oklahoma’s overall vision for sustained success.
Oklahoma’s 2024 Freshman Class: A Closer Look
Oklahoma’s 2024 freshman class is not only regarded as one of the best recruiting classes in recent years but also carries the weight of being critical to the future of several key sports programs at the university. The class is headlined by highly ranked football players, as well as fresh talent joining Oklahoma’s women’s and men’s basketball programs. The arrival of these young athletes brings new energy, talent, and the promise of competitive greatness for years to come.
Football: A New Generation of Sooners
When looking at Oklahoma’s 2024 recruiting class, the spotlight is inevitably on the football team. Under the guidance of Lincoln Riley, Oklahoma football has maintained national relevance and success. While the Sooners are in the process of adjusting to their new conference home in the SEC, their talent pipeline continues to be a major source of strength. The 2024 freshman class brings in some remarkable prospects who will help shape the future of the program.
Top Football Recruits
- Quarterback Commitment – Jackson Arnold
Jackson Arnold, one of the top quarterbacks in the 2024 class, has been regarded as a potential program-changer. Ranked as a top-five recruit at his position, Arnold has shown his dual-threat ability, excelling both in the pocket and as a runner. With Oklahoma losing key pieces in their quarterback room over the years, Arnold represents the future under center for the Sooners. His mobility, arm strength, and maturity in handling complex offensive schemes make him one of the most exciting incoming freshmen to watch in college football. - Wide Receiver – Keon Brown
Keon Brown is another highly ranked recruit for the Sooners who will immediately help bolster their receiving corps. Brown is a speedster with excellent route-running skills and an ability to make defenders miss in open space. This dynamic ability could be critical in Oklahoma’s offensive schemes, particularly as the Sooners look to adjust to the more physical playstyle of the SEC. Brown’s ability to stretch the field will give Jackson Arnold or whoever the starting quarterback is plenty of weapons to work with. - Defensive Line – Adepoju Adebawore
On defense, Adepoju Adebawore stands out as a recruit who could have an immediate impact. Known for his size, speed, and athleticism, Adebawore is a versatile defensive lineman who can generate pressure on quarterbacks. With Oklahoma transitioning to the SEC, defensive line play will be more important than ever, and Adebawore’s potential to disrupt opposing offenses will be crucial in helping the Sooners remain competitive. - Linebacker – Jaren Kanak
While the offense always gets attention, Oklahoma’s defense needs to evolve in the SEC. Jaren Kanak, a talented linebacker from Kansas, provides the kind of speed and tackling ability that could allow him to play a key role in their defensive schemes. With a focus on improving defense to match the SEC’s powerful offenses, Kanak’s presence as a freshman will be pivotal in helping Oklahoma compete in conference play. - Offensive Line – Cayden Green
The offensive line is one of the most critical positions in college football, and the Sooners have secured a top prospect in Cayden Green. Green’s combination of size, technique, and blocking skills gives him the potential to anchor the line for Oklahoma for years to come. With Arnold under center and Brown on the receiving end, Green will play a crucial role in ensuring that the offense has the protection needed to excel at the highest level.
Women’s Basketball: Building on Championship Pedigree
In women’s basketball, Oklahoma has emerged as a perennial contender, led by head coach Sherri Coale. The Sooners have built a culture of excellence over the years, consistently making deep tournament runs. The 2024 recruiting class is another piece to their already talented roster, providing new prospects with an eye toward future championship contention.
Key Women’s Basketball Recruits
- Guard – Olivia Brown
Olivia Brown is a freshman guard who brings versatility, a strong basketball IQ, and impressive scoring ability. Brown could immediately step in and contribute to the Sooners’ backcourt, adding depth to an already potent offensive unit. Her ability to score, facilitate, and create for teammates will make her a valuable asset to Oklahoma’s women’s basketball team. As the program continues to rise, Brown has the potential to be one of the next star players for the Sooners. - Forward – Samantha Blair
Samantha Blair is a highly regarded forward in the 2024 class, known for her rebounding and defensive prowess. Oklahoma’s women’s basketball team has always prided itself on its physicality and toughness, and Blair embodies those traits. Expect her to add an immediate impact on the boards and in the post, allowing Oklahoma to continue to build on its winning ways. If Blair continues to develop her offensive game, she will be an exciting part of the team’s future.
Men’s Basketball: A New Era of Talent
Oklahoma men’s basketball has seen its ups and downs over the years, but the addition of several talented freshmen in 2024 could signal a new era of success for the program. Under head coach Porter Moser, the Sooners have shown signs of growth, and these young recruits could be the final pieces needed to return the program to national prominence.
Key Men’s Basketball Recruits
- Guard – Jordan Washington
Jordan Washington is a highly touted guard who brings a dynamic scoring ability and court vision to the Sooners. Washington’s athleticism and quickness will allow him to thrive in the fast-paced style that Moser prefers to run. His ability to play both guard positions and create for others will make him an immediate contributor, helping the Sooners to get back into the mix for NCAA Tournament berths. - Forward – Michael Collier
Michael Collier, a skilled forward, will bring much-needed length, athleticism, and versatility to Oklahoma’s frontcourt. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, as well as his rebounding and defensive capabilities, will make him a key piece in Moser’s system. Collier’s potential to play both inside and on the perimeter will make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.
The Overall Impact of the 2024 Freshman Class
The 2024 freshman class is shaping up to be one of the best in Oklahoma’s history, and their arrival has set the stage for a bright future across multiple sports. For Oklahoma football, the talented recruits bring immediate contributions and long-term potential to key positions, including quarterback, defensive line, and offensive line. The Sooners are in a period of transition as they move to the SEC, but this group of freshmen will provide the program with the depth and athleticism needed to compete at the highest level.
In women’s basketball, the Sooners are poised to build on their past successes, with promising recruits like Olivia Brown and Samantha Blair adding to the program’s already stacked roster. With their contributions, Oklahoma’s women’s basketball team could continue to compete for championships for years to come.
On the men’s basketball side, the new talent coming in under Porter Moser provides hope for a return to prominence in the Big 12 and beyond. With dynamic guards and versatile forwards, this freshman class has the potential to revitalize the program and return the Sooners to NCAA Tournament contention.
