Sooners On SI Fresh Faces: Oklahoma DB Trystan Haynes Hoping to Crack Starting Lineup
As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare for the 2025 college football season, one name that has been generating significant buzz is freshman defensive back Trystan Haynes. A consensus four-star recruit from Carl Albert High School in Midwest City, Oklahoma, Haynes brings a blend of size, speed, and versatility that has the potential to make an immediate impact on the Sooners’ defense.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 175 pounds, Haynes possesses the physical attributes that make him a prototypical cornerback for the modern game. His high school career was marked by impressive statistics and accolades. In his senior season, he recorded 28 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 10 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery. Additionally, he showcased his playmaking ability with 42 receptions for 630 yards and eight touchdowns. His performance earned him a selection to the 2025 Navy All-American Bowl, a prestigious honor that highlights the nation’s top high school talent.
Haynes’ versatility was evident as he also contributed significantly in special teams, averaging 30.6 yards on five kickoff returns and totaling 210 yards and a touchdown on 15 punt returns. His dynamic playmaking ability was a key factor in Carl Albert’s success, including back-to-back Class 5A state championships in 2022 and 2023.
Upon committing to Oklahoma, Haynes expressed his excitement about joining a program with a rich tradition of defensive excellence. He noted that the Sooners’ emphasis on man-to-man coverage aligns well with his strengths, and he is eager to contribute to the team’s success.
The transition from high school to college football is always challenging, but Haynes’ athleticism and football IQ have positioned him to compete for significant playing time. His ability to read the game, combined with his physical tools, makes him a promising candidate to contribute early in his collegiate career.
The Sooners’ defensive backfield is expected to be highly competitive in 2025, with several returning players vying for starting roles. However, Haynes’ combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability has made him a standout in spring practices. Defensive backs coach Jay Valai has praised Haynes for his work ethic and adaptability, noting that he has quickly grasped the complexities of the defensive scheme.
While the starting spots are not yet finalized, Haynes’ performance in the offseason and during fall camp will be critical in determining his role on the team. If he continues to develop and demonstrate his capabilities, he could very well earn a starting position in the Sooners’ defensive backfield.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Trystan Haynes to see how he adapts to the collegiate level and whether he can secure a starting role in the Sooners’ defense. His journey from a high school standout to a potential key contributor at Oklahoma is a testament to his dedication and talent. If his development continues on its current trajectory, Haynes has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Sooners’ defense for years to come.
Trystan Haynes’ arrival at Oklahoma brings a wealth of talent and potential to the Sooners’ defensive backfield. His high school achievements, combined with his physical attributes and work ethic, position him as a strong contender for a starting role in the upcoming season. As he continues to develop and adapt to the collegiate level, Haynes has the opportunity to make a significant impact on the field and contribute to the ongoing success of the Oklahoma Sooners football program.
