Spring practice is here, and Oklahoma is ready to hit the field for the first time under the leadership of Brent Venables in his fifth spring with the team. As Team 132 gears up for the 2026 season, they're eyeing a return to the College Football Playoff. The Sooners kick off their practice late Wednesday, with more sessions lined up for Thursday and Saturday, all building towards the much-anticipated spring game on April 18 at Owen Field.
We've been diving deep into the Sooners' spring preparations, exploring everything from position battles to the newcomers making waves and the veterans with something to prove. With the release of the official spring roster, updated with the latest heights, weights, and numbers, we're getting a clearer picture of what to expect.
Let’s break down some of the standout roster updates and what they might mean for Oklahoma's upcoming campaign.
Noteworthy Gains
One of the most intriguing parts of any roster update is seeing how players have transformed in the weight room. Even with Jerry Schmidt stepping back, new head strength coach James Dobson and his team have clearly been hard at work.
Here are a few players who have made significant strides:
- Trynae Washington, a redshirt freshman tight end, has bulked up from 248 pounds to 265 pounds on his 6-foot-3 frame. This 17-pound increase is the most significant among returning players, signaling his readiness to make an impact.
- CJ Nickson, a defensive end from Weatherford, has also made substantial gains. Now at 270 pounds, up from 254, his 16-pound increase on a 6-foot-4 frame shows his dedication to stepping up his game.
- Darius Afalava, a redshirt freshman offensive lineman, has added 12 pounds, bringing him to a formidable 365 pounds at 6-foot-4. His growth from 353 pounds last season could be a game-changer on the line.
- Michael Fasusi, the starting left tackle and former five-star prospect, has gained 11 pounds. Now at 320 pounds on a 6-foot-5 frame, he's poised to build on his impressive freshman year.
These physical transformations are more than just numbers-they're a testament to the hard work and dedication of these athletes as they prepare for a season filled with potential. With the Sooners setting their sights high, these gains could be crucial in their quest for success.