Chris
Brent Venables, head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, has been actively engaging with the incoming Class of 2024 recruits to foster strong relationships and integrate them into the Sooners’ football culture. In the weeks leading up to National Signing Day, Venables and his coaching staff embarked on a nationwide tour, visiting the homes of prospective players. These visits included sharing meals with families, capturing photographs, and reinforcing the commitment to the Oklahoma program.
Venables expressed enthusiasm about these interactions, stating, “I was able to go out the last two weeks and see every player that, high school-wise, that’s coming in at midyear. So, that was a lot of fun to travel around the country and see where they grew up and where they’re from.”
The incoming class comprises 28 freshmen, with 20 expected to enroll early in January to participate in spring football practice. The recruits represent a diverse array of positions, including defensive tackles, defensive ends, linebackers, defensive backs, offensive linemen, running backs, wide receivers, quarterbacks, a utility player, and a kicker. Venables emphasized the program’s openness to early playing opportunities, noting that the coaching staff is committed to preparing all players to contribute immediately, rather than defaulting to redshirting.
The coaching staff’s dedication to personalized engagement is evident through the numerous social media posts from recruits expressing gratitude for the home visits. For instance, Jeremiah Newcombe tweeted, “Big thanks to @CoachVenables and @JayValai for visiting my home and spending time with my family and I this week. I really appreciate you guys making the trip.”
These efforts underscore Venables’ commitment to building a cohesive and motivated team by establishing strong, personal connections with each recruit. By integrating new players into the Oklahoma football family early on, Venables aims to cultivate a sense of belonging and shared purpose, setting the stage for a successful tenure with the Sooners.
