The Oklahoma Sooners have strengthened their defense by adding former Stephen F. Austin linebacker Jaydon Southard through the transfer portal. The move follows their recent addition of former Boise State defensive tackle Braxton Fely, giving an already strong defensive front even more depth.
With experienced players like Southard joining the roster, along with the expected arrival of former Wisconsin and Miami cornerback D’Yoni Hill, the Sooners appear focused on building a championship-caliber team. Here’s a closer look at the new additions and what they could bring to Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Sooners’ Recent Additions
The Oklahoma Sooners aren’t resting on their laurels, even with the season already underway. Just days before their game against the UTEP Miners, the Sooners added Braxton Fely, a standout defensive tackle from Boise State.
Fely gives an already talented defensive front more depth. That could prove important as Oklahoma works toward a successful season.
Jaydon Southard: A Key Addition
The Sooners’ latest addition is Jaydon Southard, a former linebacker from Stephen F. Austin. He was highly productive last season, posting impressive numbers, including:
- 114 tackles (53 solo, 61 assisted)
- 1.5 sacks
- 3 pass deflections
- 1 forced fumble
- 1 interception (17-yard return)
- 173 career tackles
Southard’s experience and skill set give the Sooners another useful option at linebacker. Still, earning playing time won’t be simple with the amount of talent already on the roster.
Challenges and Opportunities
Southard must quickly learn Brent Venables’ complex defensive scheme. Oklahoma has two of the best linebackers in the country in Kip Lewis and Owen Heinecke, and both are expected to hear their names called in the upcoming NFL draft.
Behind them are Cole Sullivan, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Michigan, and James Nesta, another redshirt sophomore. With that kind of depth, Southard will need to adapt quickly and show he belongs on the field.
Potential Impact on the Team
Even with the competition, Southard’s experience and tackling ability make him a valuable backup and depth piece. He can provide insurance against injuries while also supporting the development of younger players such as Dane Bathurst, who played well in the recent game against UTEP.
His addition gives Oklahoma another experienced defender to work with as the season moves forward.
Looking Ahead
According to George Stoia of SoonerScoop, the Sooners also expect to add D’Yoni Hill, a former cornerback from Wisconsin and Miami. Hill played in 43 college games and recorded 139 career tackles.
His experience could help a young secondary that still lacks depth. Hill’s expected arrival, along with Southard’s addition, shows that the Sooners are willing to use the transfer portal to address key roster needs.
Extra Year of Eligibility
Both Southard and Hill received an extra year of eligibility after a court hearing in Cleveland County. The decision is different from LSU’s controversial attempt to add former NFL players. Instead, it gives these college athletes one more season to show what they can do.
The Sooners are using that opportunity to add experience and depth to the roster.
Conclusion
The Oklahoma Sooners are making calculated moves to build a strong, talented roster. Adding Jaydon Southard, along with the anticipated arrival of D’Yoni Hill, shows the team’s proactive approach to addressing its needs.
Southard could face a challenge when it comes to earning immediate playing time, but his experience and skill set should benefit the team over the long run. As the season moves forward, these new additions could play important roles in the Sooners’ pursuit of a championship.
For more details on the Sooners’ recent additions, you can read the full article on A to Z Sports.
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