**Only Three Oklahoma Players Land on Preseason All-SEC Teams**
As Oklahoma gears up for its highly anticipated debut in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2025, expectations are sky-high. However, the Sooners enter their inaugural SEC campaign with just three players earning preseason All-SEC honors — a surprisingly modest number for a program of OU’s stature.
The Southeastern Conference revealed its preseason All-SEC teams this week, and only linebacker Danny Stutsman, offensive tackle Tyler Guyton, and wide receiver Jalil Farooq made the cut for Oklahoma. Stutsman landed on the first team, Guyton on the second, and Farooq earned a third-team nod.
Stutsman, the heart of Oklahoma’s defense, is a returning All-Big 12 standout who led the Sooners in tackles each of the past two seasons. With his mix of size, speed, and leadership, he’s widely regarded as one of the top linebackers in the nation. His inclusion on the first team was expected and marks a significant sign of respect from SEC coaches and media, who voted on the preseason teams.
Tyler Guyton, projected as a first-round NFL Draft pick, anchors a revamped Oklahoma offensive line. His massive 6-foot-7 frame and athleticism at right tackle have drawn comparisons to former SEC greats. Though he’s still somewhat raw, Guyton’s upside is immense — and being named to the second team signals that the SEC is taking notice.
Jalil Farooq’s third-team selection comes as a bit of a surprise, given the depth of receiver talent in the SEC. While Farooq hasn’t posted eye-popping numbers yet, he’s shown flashes of elite playmaking ability and is expected to become a primary target in Jeff Lebby’s fast-paced offense.
Still, only three Sooners being recognized underscores both the challenge ahead and the respect gap they’ll need to close in their new conference home. Programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU had double or triple the number of players selected. For a team used to contending for Big 12 titles, the message is clear: proving themselves in the SEC will require more than just name recognition.
Brent Venables and his staff will surely use this as motivation. With a new-look roster, bolstered by both high school recruits and key transfer portal additions, Oklahoma has the talent to surprise. But for now, the SEC is waiting to see if the Sooners can match their reputation
with results.
