The Oklahoma Sooners’ Spring Practice Plan: Important Players to Keep an Eye on

As the Oklahoma Sooners head into their spring football practices, there is an unmistakable sense of anticipation surrounding the program. Under Brent Venables, now entering his second season as head coach, the Sooners are looking to rebound from a challenging 2022 season and make a significant push toward returning to national prominence. Spring practice is a crucial period for teams to identify key players, develop talent, and fine-tune strategies for the upcoming season. For the Sooners, this spring is about both continuity and renewal, as they aim to build on their traditions while integrating new elements into their program.

For Oklahoma fans and analysts alike, this time of year provides an opportunity to get a sneak peek at the players who will help define the team’s performance in the fall. From returning veterans hoping to take the next step to newcomers vying for starting roles, spring practice is the perfect environment for players to showcase their skills and solidify their place on the depth chart.

In this article, we’ll break down some of the most important players to keep an eye on as the Sooners begin their spring practice plan, covering both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball, along with players who are poised to have a significant impact in 2023 and beyond.

1. Dylan Gabriel (Quarterback)

As the leader of the offense, Dylan Gabriel will undoubtedly be one of the most watched players during spring practice. The 5th-year senior quarterback transferred to Oklahoma from UCF in 2022, and his first year with the Sooners showed glimpses of his ability but was also marked by inconsistency at times. Gabriel has a strong arm, excellent mobility, and the experience that many quarterbacks lack at this level, making him the focal point of the offense going into the 2023 season.

Venables has made it clear that the Sooners need to play complementary football, and that starts with having a stable and effective quarterback. Gabriel has the tools to lead Oklahoma to success, but he must improve his decision-making and overall consistency, especially with the pressure of higher expectations in his second season.

This spring, Gabriel will be looking to develop chemistry with his receiving corps, which will be a key factor in the offense’s success. Improving his deep ball accuracy and reading defenses will be crucial for Gabriel as he looks to prove that he can guide the Sooners to a return to the top of the Big 12 standings.

2. Marcus Major (Running Back)

Marcus Major is another player to watch closely during spring practices. The 6-foot-1, 214-pound running back has shown flashes of his potential in previous seasons but has yet to fully break out as Oklahoma’s feature back. With the departure of Eric Gray, Major now has an opportunity to step into a leading role in the backfield, and spring practice will be vital for him to assert himself as the Sooners’ go-to option.

Venables has been clear about wanting to develop a more balanced offensive attack, and the running back position is a crucial part of that plan. Major has good size, speed, and power, but he’ll need to refine his vision and decisiveness in order to become the primary back for the Sooners. His ability to contribute as both a runner and a pass-catcher out of the backfield will be something to watch this spring, as it will help determine how Oklahoma plans to utilize him in their offense.

Oklahoma’s offensive line will also be a critical factor in Major’s success. With some new faces on the offensive line, how they gel together during spring practices will play a key role in Major’s ability to break through for big runs.

3. Marvin Mims Jr. (Wide Receiver)

Marvin Mims Jr. is another standout player to keep an eye on during spring practice. Mims, one of the top playmakers in college football last season, is returning for his junior year and will be looking to build on a remarkable 2022 campaign. With his ability to stretch the field, Mims has become a true deep threat for the Sooners, and he will be a key figure in the passing game again in 2023.

Mims has an innate ability to make big plays and score touchdowns, which makes him a vital asset for Dylan Gabriel and the offense. This spring, Mims will be focused on refining his route-running skills and building chemistry with Gabriel, who will rely heavily on his star wide receiver. Additionally, Mims will be looking to continue developing his all-around game, including working on his short-route precision and blocking.

With so much attention focused on Mims, he is likely to attract double coverage from opposing defenses in 2023, which means he’ll need to be even more effective in creating separation and making plays when it matters most. Mims’ progress this spring will be critical in determining how well the Sooners’ offense can diversify their passing attack.

4. Jahlil Farooq (Wide Receiver)

Jahlil Farooq is another wide receiver who is primed to take on a larger role in 2023. The sophomore receiver showed glimpses of his potential as a freshman, and with Mims attracting plenty of attention from opposing defenses, Farooq has an opportunity to become a more prominent weapon for the Sooners. Farooq has good size (6-foot-1) and a versatile skill set that allows him to line up in multiple positions across the offense.

Farooq’s development as a reliable second option behind Mims will be crucial to the offense’s success in 2023. With his quickness, hands, and ability to make plays after the catch, Farooq could emerge as one of the breakout stars of the spring. As a sophomore, Farooq will be looking to take the next step in his progression, and spring practices will be key in helping him build confidence and improve his consistency.

5. Reggie Pearson (Safety)

On the defensive side of the ball, Reggie Pearson is a player to watch closely this spring. The graduate transfer from Texas Tech will be an integral part of Oklahoma’s secondary in 2023. Pearson is known for his physicality and ability to make big plays, and he will be crucial in solidifying the Sooners’ safety position.

Oklahoma’s defense under Venables is focused on aggressive playmaking, and Pearson’s ability to read the quarterback, make tackles in the open field, and provide leadership in the back end of the defense will be vital. As a veteran player with significant experience, Pearson will be expected to bring a level of stability to the safety position, and his communication with the cornerbacks and linebackers will be key in ensuring that the defense operates efficiently.

Pearson’s performance in spring practices will also be a strong indicator of how he fits into Venables’ defensive system, which places a heavy emphasis on versatility and adaptability. His ability to cover ground quickly and support both the run and pass defense will make him a vital cog in the Sooners’ defensive machine.

6. Ethan Downs (Defensive End)

Ethan Downs is one of the most exciting defensive players for Oklahoma heading into 2023. The sophomore defensive end had a solid freshman season, and there are high expectations for him in his second year with the program. Downs is known for his speed off the edge and ability to disrupt the opposing offense, making him a key player in Venables’ defensive scheme.

As Oklahoma looks to improve its pass rush and overall defensive performance, Downs will be critical in generating pressure on the quarterback. His development as a more consistent edge rusher, particularly in creating sacks and forcing turnovers, will be a focal point during spring practice. Downs’ physical tools are undeniable, but this spring, he will be focusing on refining his technique, especially in terms of hand placement, leveraging his speed, and finding ways to defeat blockers more effectively.

With an emphasis on improving the defense in 2023, Downs’ growth this spring will be essential for the Sooners to have a competitive defense that can challenge Big 12 quarterbacks and get after opposing offenses.

7. Brennan Presley (Wide Receiver/Return Specialist)

Brennan Presley, a versatile player who can contribute both as a wide receiver and return specialist, will be another key player to watch in spring practices. Presley is known for his electric speed and ability to make plays in space, both on offense and special teams. His ability to stretch the field and break off big plays after the catch makes him an intriguing weapon for the Sooners in 2023.

Presley’s role could expand this spring, as he may see increased opportunities in both the passing game and as a punt returner. With Mims and Farooq likely getting most of the attention from opposing defenses, Presley has a chance to emerge as a dynamic playmaker who can change the game in an instant. The Sooners will be looking for Presley to make an impact in various facets of the game, and spring practice will provide an important opportunity to gauge his progress.