Which transfer from Oklahoma football will have the biggest influence? All 13 players are ranked by us.

In the fast-evolving landscape of college football, the transfer portal has become a crucial component of team building. For programs like Oklahoma, which is aiming to rebuild and reassert itself on the national stage, the transfer portal is an essential tool for improving the roster quickly. Oklahoma football has been active in the portal, bringing in 13 players from various programs, each with a unique skill set and background. As the Sooners transition into the SEC under head coach Brent Venables, the impact of these transfers will be crucial to their success.

This article will rank all 13 of Oklahoma’s transfer players based on their potential to influence the program in the 2024 season and beyond. We will explore each player’s background, playing style, and potential fit within the Sooners’ system, ultimately determining which transfer will have the biggest impact on the team’s success. The rankings will take into account factors like immediate playing time, fit within the team’s needs, and overall talent.

1. QB Dillon Gabriel (UCF) – Immediate Starter with High Expectations

When it comes to transfers, the quarterback position is always the most crucial, and Dillon Gabriel’s transfer to Oklahoma is arguably the most significant acquisition the Sooners have made in recent years. After two seasons at UCF, Gabriel has proven himself as a dynamic playmaker with an impressive arm and ability to lead his team. He led the Knights to multiple successful seasons and was known for his ability to make plays both through the air and with his legs.

At Oklahoma, Gabriel will be expected to step in immediately as the starting quarterback and lead the offense. With his experience and skill set, Gabriel brings stability to a position that has been in flux since the departure of former Heisman Trophy winner, Kyler Murray. Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, Gabriel’s dual-threat ability should thrive in Oklahoma’s up-tempo, high-powered offense.

Gabriel’s biggest contribution will be his leadership and ability to maintain offensive efficiency, especially in big games. As a proven starter with a solid track record, he could be the difference-maker in Oklahoma’s push for an SEC championship in the coming years. His familiarity with Lebby’s offensive system, which he ran during his time at UCF, should allow for a smooth transition, and his ability to elevate the play of his teammates will be key to Oklahoma’s success.

2. LB Dasan McCullough (Indiana) – Immediate Defensive Playmaker

Linebacker Dasan McCullough is another huge transfer acquisition for Oklahoma. Coming from Indiana, where he was a standout freshman and quickly earned a reputation as one of the most explosive defensive players in the Big Ten, McCullough has all the tools to be a difference-maker in Norman. At 6’5” and 240 pounds, McCullough possesses excellent size for a linebacker, combined with the speed and athleticism to make plays all over the field.

McCullough’s physicality and sideline-to-sideline range make him an ideal fit for Venables’ defensive scheme. He’s expected to have an immediate impact, particularly in run defense and pass coverage, where he can use his instincts and agility to disrupt plays. His ability to contribute as both a linebacker and an edge rusher gives Oklahoma flexibility, making him one of the most valuable transfers the Sooners have brought in. McCullough will play a critical role in Oklahoma’s defense, and his leadership could help elevate the entire defensive unit.

3. WR Andrel Anthony (Michigan) – Immediate Contributor to the Passing Game

Wide receiver Andrel Anthony’s transfer from Michigan gives Oklahoma a much-needed weapon in the passing game. Anthony was a highly productive player during his time with the Wolverines and provides a dangerous deep threat. With the Sooners needing to replace some of their top receiving targets, Anthony has the chance to step in and become a key contributor.

What makes Anthony such a valuable addition is his explosiveness and ability to stretch the field. His speed and ball-tracking skills make him a nightmare for opposing defensive backs, and he will complement Dillon Gabriel’s arm strength well. Oklahoma’s passing attack has been a key component of their offense for years, and Anthony’s ability to create mismatches on the outside will be crucial for offensive success. Expect him to make an immediate impact as a starter and a potential deep-threat target for Gabriel.

4. OL Troy Everett (Southern Utah) – Key Depth for the Offensive Line

The offensive line is often one of the most overlooked units in college football, but its importance cannot be overstated. Oklahoma’s ability to establish a strong, balanced offense in the SEC will hinge on their offensive line, and Troy Everett’s transfer from Southern Utah is an important piece of that puzzle. Everett, a transfer from the FCS level, is a versatile offensive lineman with excellent size and strength.

Although he may not immediately be a starter, Everett provides valuable depth and could push for significant playing time. His ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line gives Oklahoma options in terms of lineup flexibility. The offensive line will need to gel quickly as the Sooners prepare for their SEC transition, and Everett’s experience could make him an important rotational piece for the team.

5. DL Jacob Lacey (Louisville) – Powerful Force on the Defensive Line

Defensive lineman Jacob Lacey’s transfer from Louisville provides the Sooners with a much-needed boost in the trenches. Lacey brings valuable experience from his time in the ACC and will help anchor Oklahoma’s defensive line. At 6’2” and 300 pounds, Lacey is a powerful force in the interior, capable of disrupting the line of scrimmage and getting after the quarterback.

Lacey’s role on the defensive line will be essential, particularly against SEC-level competition. He can provide a steady presence in both run defense and pass rush, which will be crucial for Oklahoma as they look to impose their will against some of the top offenses in the country. Lacey’s leadership and physicality make him a critical addition to the defensive line.

6. CB Jaden Davis (Oklahoma State) – Potential Starter in the Secondary

Jaden Davis, a transfer from Oklahoma State, enters the Oklahoma program with the potential to contribute immediately in the secondary. Davis is an experienced cornerback who has proven himself at the collegiate level and is known for his ability to cover receivers one-on-one and make plays on the ball. His skill set should allow him to slot in as a starter or contribute as a significant depth piece in the defensive backfield.

Oklahoma’s defense has struggled with pass coverage in recent years, and Davis could help improve that unit with his ability to lock down receivers. His physicality, ball skills, and football IQ will be valuable assets as the Sooners transition to a more competitive SEC schedule. Davis’ ability to play both inside and outside cornerback will give the Sooners flexibility and depth in their secondary.

7. S Key Lawrence (Tennessee) – Playmaking Potential at Safety

Safety Key Lawrence, a transfer from Tennessee, adds a playmaking presence to the Oklahoma secondary. Lawrence has been a consistent performer for the Volunteers and will provide much-needed leadership and stability in the back end of Oklahoma’s defense. His ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball will be key in improving the Sooners’ overall defensive performance.

Lawrence will likely be in the mix for a starting spot at safety, and his playmaking ability will help in both pass coverage and run support. His leadership and experience in high-pressure situations will help solidify Oklahoma’s defensive backfield, particularly as they face some of the top offenses in the SEC.

8. RB Jovantae Barnes (OU) – Critical Depth at Running Back

Although Jovantae Barnes technically is not a new transfer, he is an important addition to the Oklahoma backfield in 2024. Barnes emerged as a young star last season and will be relied upon heavily for depth at running back. With his combination of speed, vision, and toughness, Barnes could become the lead back for Oklahoma, giving them a reliable option in the ground game.

While the transfer portal has not brought a major running back to the Sooners’ roster, Barnes’ potential in his second season will be critical for the team’s success. His ability to complement the passing game and establish a strong running attack will be key as Oklahoma looks to compete in the SEC.

9. OL Wanya Morris (Tennessee) – Solidifying the Offensive Line

Wanya Morris, a transfer from Tennessee, provides another critical piece to Oklahoma’s offensive line. Morris is known for his physicality and has the size and experience to make an immediate impact. His experience playing in the SEC at Tennessee will be valuable as he acclimates to the competitive nature of the conference.

Morris will play a key role in solidifying the offensive line and ensuring the Sooners’ success in both the running and passing games. He may push for a starting spot or provide vital depth for the line.

10. DE Clayton Smith (Texas Tech) – Pass-Rush Potential

Clayton Smith, a transfer from Texas Tech, offers significant pass-rush potential for Oklahoma. Smith has shown flashes of being a disruptive force off the edge and will add depth to Oklahoma’s defensive line. While he may not immediately be a starter, his ability to provide pressure on the quarterback will make him an important contributor in key situations.

11. TE Brayden Willis (Oklahoma State) – Tight End Depth

Brayden Willis is a versatile tight end who will give the Sooners more options in the passing game. While he may not be as explosive as some of the other transfers, his blocking ability and hands make him a valuable piece of the offense.

12. WR Joe Jon Finley (Missouri) – Developmental Potential

Finley provides a developmental option for Oklahoma at wide receiver. His raw talent could be cultivated into a contributor, but he will need time to adjust to the system.

13. LB Kalib Hicks (UCLA) – Depth at Linebacker

Kalib Hicks provides depth at linebacker and will be used in specific situations. While not expected to make an immediate impact, his ability to contribute on special teams and as a rotational piece adds value to the defensive unit.