Oklahoma Sooners lose out on hometown kid to far inferior football program, even after the 2024 season
The Oklahoma Sooners’ football program, renowned for its rich history and consistent success, faced a notable setback during the 2025 recruiting cycle when they lost a highly coveted in-state recruit to a rival program. This development raised questions about the program’s recruiting strategy and its ability to retain top local talent.
The recruit in question, Antoni Kade Ogumoro, a 6-foot-4, 320-pound interior offensive lineman from Elgin, Oklahoma, had been a target for the Sooners’ coaching staff. Ogumoro had previously played his first couple of seasons at White Oak High School in Jacksonville, North Carolina, before transferring to Elgin High School for his senior season. His size and skill set made him an attractive prospect for several programs.
Despite Oklahoma’s efforts, including a personal visit from offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, Ogumoro ultimately committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. He cited the treatment of his family and the overall experience during his visit to Tennessee as significant factors in his decision. Ogumoro’s commitment to Tennessee was seen as a surprising turn of events, given Oklahoma’s established reputation and success in developing offensive linemen.
This loss was particularly impactful for the Sooners, as they had already secured commitments from four-star offensive tackle Ryan Fodje and three-star Owen Hollenbeck for the 2025 class. The addition of Ogumoro would have further strengthened their offensive line depth and provided a local talent who could contribute to the program’s future success.
The departure of Ogumoro to a rival program underscored the challenges faced by Oklahoma in maintaining its dominance in the recruiting landscape. While the Sooners have consistently attracted top talent from across the country, the loss of in-state recruits to rival programs highlights the increasing competition and the need for continuous engagement with local prospects.
In response to this setback, the Sooners’ coaching staff has intensified their recruiting efforts, focusing on building stronger relationships with local high school programs and emphasizing the benefits of staying close to home. The program remains committed to its tradition of excellence and is determined to learn from this experience to enhance its recruiting strategies moving forward.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Oklahoma Sooners continue to build their roster with a mix of experienced players and promising recruits. While the loss of Ogumoro was a disappointment, the program’s resilience and commitment to excellence position them well for future success.
