The absence of in-state commits from Oklahoma in the class of 2026, particularly in the context of college football recruiting, is a notable and somewhat unusual situation that has sparked considerable discussion among fans, analysts, and recruiting insiders. To understand why this is happening and what has changed compared to previous years, it’s important to explore a combination of factors that together contribute to this development. This includes the evolving landscape of college football recruiting, the shifting dynamics of Oklahoma’s football program, the increasing competitiveness of other programs both within and outside the state, and broader trends affecting recruiting strategies and player decisions.
First and foremost, Oklahoma has historically been a powerhouse in college football recruiting, regularly securing a significant portion of its roster from talented players within the state. Oklahoma high school football is well-regarded nationwide, producing high-level athletes who often prefer to stay close to home. In past recruiting classes, it was almost a certainty that the University of Oklahoma (OU) would sign several key in-state prospects. This continuity helped maintain a strong connection between the program and local high schools, fostering a pipeline that benefited both sides. However, the class of 2026 has deviated from this trend, raising questions about what has shifted in recent years.
One major factor contributing to the lack of in-state commits is the transformation within the Oklahoma football program itself. Following the tenure of long-time head coach Lincoln Riley, who left for the University of Southern California (USC) after the 2021 season, the program entered a period of transition. Coaching changes often lead to uncertainty among recruits, especially high school players who rely heavily on relationships with coaches and staff when making their college decisions. The arrival of new head coach Brent Venables brought a fresh approach, but it also meant that many recruits were reconsidering their options amid the changing environment. Stability and trust in a coaching staff are crucial for securing commitments from local players who might otherwise feel a deep connection to the program; any perceived instability can lead to hesitation or even the decision to sign elsewhere.
Additionally, the timing of coaching changes relative to recruiting cycles can significantly impact commitments. The class of 2026 recruitment process largely coincided with the immediate aftermath of Riley’s departure and the adjustment period under Venables. Players who might have been expected to commit early either delayed their decisions or began exploring other programs that offered clearer or more stable situations. Unlike previous classes, when the staff and system were well-established, the uncertainty during this transition likely led some of Oklahoma’s top in-state prospects to look beyond their home state or even outside the Big 12 Conference.
Moreover, the increased nationalization of recruiting has altered traditional recruiting dynamics. College football recruiting is no longer confined by geographic borders. Programs across the country actively pursue top talent regardless of location, using advanced analytics, social media, and broader scouting networks to identify and court prospects. For Oklahoma’s in-state players, this means they receive offers and attention from a wider array of programs than ever before. The appeal of playing in a Power Five conference outside their home state, exposure to new regions, and the chance to compete for national championships with different schools have all contributed to greater player mobility.
This nationalization is particularly impactful when combined with the recent shifts in the college football landscape brought about by the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. NIL opportunities have introduced a new dimension to recruiting decisions, as athletes consider not only playing time and program prestige but also their potential to monetize their brand. Larger markets, schools with stronger media presence, and programs that have established NIL networks can be especially attractive to recruits. Oklahoma, traditionally a strong program but based in a smaller media market compared to places like Texas, California, or Florida, may find it more difficult to compete for in-state talent when NIL prospects are taken into account.
The rise of Oklahoma State University (OSU) as a recruiting competitor in the state also plays a significant role. OSU has steadily improved its football program under head coach Mike Gundy, building a solid reputation and becoming more competitive in recruiting battles against OU. Some top Oklahoma players have chosen OSU over OU, seeing it as an opportunity to contribute immediately and be part of a program on the rise. This intra-state rivalry for talent means that OU can no longer rely on simply being the top option for local recruits.
Furthermore, the Big 12 Conference itself has undergone changes that affect recruiting decisions. With Texas and Oklahoma set to leave the Big 12 for the Southeastern Conference (SEC) after the 2024 season, there is a period of flux. Prospects and their families may be weighing the implications of this move, uncertain about the program’s future competition level, media exposure, and conference stability. This uncertainty can cause recruits to look elsewhere or hold off on committing until more clarity is provided.
From a broader perspective, the overall recruiting environment has become more competitive and strategic. Players today have access to more information, guidance, and options than ever before. Recruiting services, highlight reels, social media engagement, and transfer portal activity have made the landscape highly dynamic. Players and their families are increasingly savvy about maximizing their opportunities, not just in terms of playing time and development but also regarding long-term career prospects and financial considerations. This sophistication in decision-making means that programs cannot rely on traditional recruiting advantages like geographic proximity alone.
Another subtle but important aspect is the perception of program culture and player development. Oklahoma’s recent years have seen mixed results on the field, with some inconsistency in performance and questions about offensive and defensive schemes under the new coaching staff. Top in-state recruits might perceive other programs as better fits for their playing style, personal development, or chances to reach the NFL. These perceptions, whether fully accurate or not, influence recruiting outcomes and reflect the importance of maintaining a positive and compelling program narrative.
In sum, the absence of in-state commits from Oklahoma in the class of 2026 is not the result of a single cause but rather the intersection of multiple evolving factors. The coaching transition at Oklahoma created uncertainty, the nationalization and increased competitiveness of recruiting widened options for players, NIL opportunities shifted priorities, OSU emerged as a stronger local competitor, and the upcoming conference realignment added further complexity. All these elements combined have disrupted the traditional pattern of Oklahoma securing a strong contingent of homegrown talent.
Looking ahead, Oklahoma’s ability to re-establish a strong connection with local prospects will depend on how well the program stabilizes under Coach Venables, how effectively it communicates its vision, and how it leverages new recruiting tools and NIL strategies to compete in an increasingly complex environment. While the class of 2026 may lack in-state commits, this could be a temporary anomaly as the program recalibrates. However, it also serves as a clear sign that recruiting in today’s college football landscape requires constant adaptation and proactive engagement with both local and national prospects. Oklahoma’s future success on the recruiting trail will depend on embracing these changes and building a compelling, stable, and attractive program that resonates with players both in-state and beyond.
