Surprising breakout impact playmakers stole the show at Oklahoma Sooners spring game, adding valuable depth for a CFP run

The Oklahoma Sooners had quite a few players put up a strong performance in their spring game, potentially giving them the championship depth they’ve long needed

The Oklahoma Sooners have had a tumultuous few seasons. A rocky 2024 destabilized what looked like a fast-rising program. 2025 saw them make the College Football Playoff, but a shaky offense ultimately undid their championship hopes.

However, their efforts to rebuild their roster have begun bearing fruit. Spearheaded by general manager Jim Nagy alongside Oklahoma’s coaching staff, several transfers and young players have been brought in and begun to breakout for the Sooners.

If what we saw in the spring game was any indication, a number of new Sooners could be the difference-maker Oklahoma needs to elevate their championship hopes for 2026.

Oklahoma Sooners stars stealing the show in the spring

I wrote about the Sooners’ improved run game yesterday, but it’s worth bringing up again just how much true freshman running back DeZephen Walker looked the part, blowing everyone away at the spring game with his explosiveness to pick up 81 yards on eight carries. Depth at running back was costly down the stretch for Oklahoma. Having multiple players they can rely on there is a huge change for them next year.

Sticking with offense, how about the play of true freshman wide receiver Jahsiear Rogers and transfer Mackenzie Alleyne? Despite working mainly with the second team, Rogers was smooth and explosive, putting up 70 yards on just five catches, including a highlight reel snag early on. Alleyne has been the talk of spring ball, and has quickly formed a connection with John Mateer. I’m not sure how much impact he’ll have, but he’s carving out a role for the Sooners in 2026.

For one last brief bit on the offense, it sounds like the Sooners have their offensive line set. From left to right, I’d imagine their starting offensive line looks like Michael Fasusi-Eddy Pierre-Louis-Jake Maikkula-Ryan Fodje-and E’Marion Harris. The right guard spot is evidently the only spot with a real battle between Fodje and Heath Ozaeta.

Flipping sides here, the Sooners’ defensive line looks like it won’t skip a beat. Defensive tackle Nigel Smith II has taken the opportunity with David Stone and sitting out the spring to snatch a role, and he was awesome on Saturday. I wouldn’t be surprised if he takes ’s snaps for the Sooners’ rotation.