Drake Stoops is back on the field-and this time, he’s suiting up for the Dallas Renegades.
The former Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver has officially signed with the Renegades, marking a new chapter in his football journey. It’s a full-circle moment of sorts: the Renegades were once coached by his father, Bob Stoops, who recently retired after leading the team through multiple spring football campaigns. But unlike in Norman or Arlington, Drake never actually played under his dad’s headset-until now, kind of.
Let’s rewind. Drake Stoops carved out his name at Oklahoma not just because of his last name, but because of his grit, consistency, and playmaking ability.
Joining the Sooners as a preferred walk-on in 2018, he earned his way onto the field during one of the most talent-loaded stretches in program history. We're talking about a guy who lined up alongside CeeDee Lamb and Marvin Mims, and caught passes from a who's who of college quarterbacks: Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts, Spencer Rattler, Caleb Williams, and Dillon Gabriel.
By the time his six-year college career wrapped up, Stoops had racked up 164 receptions for 1,876 yards and 17 touchdowns. His final season in 2023 was his breakout year-84 catches, 962 yards, and 10 scores.
That kind of production doesn’t happen by accident. He became a reliable target in the slot, a chain-mover with sure hands and a knack for finding soft spots in the defense.
Still, the NFL didn’t come calling during the 2024 Draft. Stoops signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent, but never made it off the practice squad. He later inked a reserve/future deal with the team, but was released before the 2025 season, while also dealing with a suspension that derailed his shot at sticking around.
Interestingly, the Renegades had already seen potential in Stoops. They selected him in the 10th round of the 2024 UFL Draft-back when his dad was still coaching the team.
At the time, Stoops opted to chase the NFL dream. Now, with that path on pause, he’s circling back to the Renegades, this time under new leadership and with a renewed sense of purpose.
This isn’t just a sentimental signing. It’s a legitimate opportunity for Stoops to show he belongs at the pro level.
The XFL has become a proving ground for players looking to reignite or launch their NFL careers, and Stoops has the résumé and work ethic to make some noise. He’s played in big games, made clutch catches, and earned every snap he’s taken.
Don’t be surprised if he becomes a go-to guy in the Renegades’ offense.
Drake Stoops may not have taken the traditional route, but his story is far from finished. With the Renegades, he’s got a new jersey, a fresh start, and a chance to remind everyone why he’s more than just a familiar last name.