Oklahoma linebacker Kobie McKinzie is officially headed to the transfer portal, signaling a major shift for both the Sooners and the veteran defender.
McKinzie, who still has one year of eligibility left, informed ON3’s Hayes Fawcett of his decision. The Lubbock, Texas native has been a steady contributor for OU over the past three seasons, racking up 84 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and four pass deflections in his time with the program. This past season, he logged 32 tackles and a sack as part of a Sooners defense that helped punch a ticket to the College Football Playoff.
McKinzie’s departure opens up a significant hole in Oklahoma’s linebacker rotation. While he may not have been the flashiest name on the roster, he brought consistency, physicality, and experience to the second level of the defense. His ability to read plays and get downhill in a hurry made him a reliable piece in Brent Venables’ system.
For McKinzie, entering the portal gives him a chance to reset and potentially find a program where he can take on an even larger role in his final season. Whether he’s looking for a scheme fit, more playing time, or simply a new environment, he’ll bring proven production and three years of Power Five experience to his next stop.
The timing is also key. The official transfer portal window for college football opens January 2 and runs through January 16, giving McKinzie a couple of weeks to weigh his options and find the right landing spot.
As the Sooners prepare for life without one of their veteran linebackers, they’ll be leaning on a younger group to step up in 2026. Meanwhile, McKinzie becomes one of the more intriguing names to watch in a portal cycle that’s already heating up.