Just in: Oklahoma Sooners Lands a Super SEC Most Wanted Commit, Five-Star OL Will Campbell Choosing Oklahoma Sooners Over LSU, Michigan, and Others
In a massive recruiting win for the Oklahoma Sooners, five-star offensive lineman Will Campbell, one of the most highly coveted prospects in the 2025 class, has officially committed to Oklahoma. This decision came after months of speculation, with Campbell considered a top priority for several elite programs, particularly in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His choice of the Sooners over heavy-hitters such as LSU, Michigan, and others marks a significant development for both Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts and the larger landscape of college football recruiting.
The Commitment of Will Campbell
Will Campbell, an imposing 6-foot-6, 325-pound offensive tackle from Lafayette, Louisiana, has been a highly sought-after recruit for much of the past year. His blend of size, strength, and athleticism has made him one of the most dynamic and feared linemen in his class. For teams looking to build an elite offensive line, Campbell was seen as a must-get player, and the Sooners’ ability to land him sends a strong message about the program’s trajectory and its growing recruiting influence, especially in SEC country.
Before Campbell’s commitment to Oklahoma, the recruitment process was intense. LSU, his home-state school, was considered one of the favorites, and Michigan was also thought to be in the running, given the program’s pedigree in developing offensive linemen and its push for top-tier talent. The fact that Oklahoma was able to overcome these heavy favorites shows just how much head coach Brent Venables and his staff have been able to build momentum in their recruiting efforts. It also speaks to the vision they are selling to recruits, which is starting to resonate with top-tier talent across the country.
A Battle for SEC Dominance
The decision for Campbell to choose Oklahoma over LSU is particularly noteworthy considering that LSU has long been a powerhouse in the SEC and a top contender for the best players in the region. LSU, led by head coach Brian Kelly, has traditionally been one of the most formidable forces in college football, especially in the SEC West, where top recruits often make decisions with conference rivalries and championship potential in mind. As the state of Louisiana consistently produces high-level football talent, LSU has long been the in-state leader in recruiting.
However, Campbell’s commitment to the Sooners signifies a changing of the tides, at least in this particular case. Oklahoma’s appeal has been growing ever since the program announced its move to the SEC, and it is clear that this shift is beginning to pay dividends in their recruiting efforts. By securing a commitment from a Louisiana native who had deep ties to LSU, the Sooners are making a statement that they can compete with SEC juggernauts for top-tier recruits.
Oklahoma’s recruitment of Campbell is particularly impressive when considering the quality of the competition. LSU’s recent success on the field, including a 2022 National Championship appearance, combined with Michigan’s strong tradition under head coach Jim Harbaugh and its consistent success on the national stage, should not be discounted. Yet, Oklahoma’s program — led by a coach who has overseen defensive brilliance — has been able to convince Campbell that its future will be equally bright, if not more so, in the SEC.
Why Oklahoma?
The Sooners’ appeal to Campbell and other top-tier recruits lies in their combination of coaching, facilities, and future prospects in the SEC. First, Oklahoma has made significant strides in recent years under the leadership of Venables, who took over as head coach in 2022. His ability to recruit and coach up elite talent, particularly in defensive schemes, has been evident from the moment he arrived in Norman. For Campbell, who plays on the offensive line, the Sooners’ balanced and dynamic offensive approach likely appealed to his skill set.
Another crucial factor in Campbell’s decision is Oklahoma’s impending move to the SEC. The Sooners will officially join the SEC in 2024, which creates an even greater opportunity for players like Campbell to compete at the highest level of college football. With the increase in competition, especially in the trenches, a five-star offensive lineman will have the chance to prove himself in one of the most prestigious conferences in the country. This move is not just about joining a conference; it’s about challenging for national championships in a league that consistently produces some of the most competitive teams year after year.
Furthermore, Oklahoma’s impressive facilities and fanbase were likely factors in Campbell’s decision. Norman, Oklahoma, has long been a place where top recruits can develop into future NFL stars. With the Sooners set to enter the most competitive conference in college football, Campbell’s decision may have been influenced by the program’s investment in making sure their athletes are prepared to succeed at the next level.
The Bigger Picture: A Changing Recruiting Landscape
Campbell’s commitment is not just a win for Oklahoma’s 2025 class; it could also mark a potential shift in the recruiting landscape for both the Sooners and the SEC. As Oklahoma transitions into the SEC, it is likely to challenge the current recruiting dynamics in the region. Historically, SEC schools have dominated in the talent-rich areas of the South and the Southeast, with traditional powerhouses like Alabama, LSU, Georgia, and others securing some of the top recruits year after year.
By landing Campbell, Oklahoma is sending a message that it is not simply a program with a great history but one that can compete at the highest level moving forward. With this commitment, the Sooners are building a foundation to not only thrive in the SEC but to compete for national titles in the years to come. It’s a bold statement, but one that is starting to take shape under Venables’ leadership.
Conclusion
Will Campbell’s decision to commit to the Oklahoma Sooners over LSU, Michigan, and other elite programs is a massive win for Brent Venables and the Oklahoma coaching staff. This commitment not only strengthens Oklahoma’s 2025 recruiting class but also signals the Sooners’ potential to disrupt the recruiting dominance of SEC programs like LSU. As Oklahoma prepares to join the SEC, they are proving that they can compete for the best recruits in the country and set the stage for future success on the biggest stage in college football. With Campbell now in the fold, Oklahoma’s offensive line looks poised to be a major strength for
the Sooners in the years to come.