SAD DEPARTURE: Brent Venables Announces the Departure and Confirms the List of 5 Players Set to Depart from the Oklahoma Sooners
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Oklahoma Sooners community, head coach Brent Venables has officially announced the departure of five key players from the program. The announcement came during a press briefing that had fans and media alike on edge, as rumors had already begun circulating about possible exits. Coach Venables, with a heavy heart, confirmed the names of the players who will be moving on from the team, either through transfer, graduation, or pursuit of professional opportunities.
While change is a constant in college football, the timing and the names involved in this latest round of departures have sparked deep emotions among fans and players alike. Coach Venables expressed his appreciation for the dedication and effort each of these athletes brought to the program during their time in Norman.
Among the five confirmed players leaving, standout wide receiver Jalil Farooq is perhaps the most notable. Farooq has been a dynamic presence on the field, known for his reliable hands and explosive playmaking ability. He has decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal, seeking a fresh start and new challenges. His departure leaves a significant gap in the Sooners’ receiving corps, and his absence will surely be felt next season.
Joining him in departure is defensive lineman R Mason Thomas, another high-potential player whose performance over the past season had begun to turn heads. Thomas is reportedly considering opportunities at other Power Five schools and may also have professional aspirations in the near future. His strength and explosiveness on the defensive line made him a fan favorite, and his departure is a considerable loss to the Sooners’ defense.
Also on the list is Kaden Helms, a young tight end who had been touted as a future cornerstone of the offense. Helms has battled injuries during his time with the program and will be looking to reignite his career elsewhere. His potential remains high, and many believe a change of scenery might be exactly what he needs to break out.
Two additional names, Dasan McCullough, a highly regarded linebacker transfer from Indiana, and DJ Graham, a veteran defensive back who made several memorable plays during his time at OU, round out the list of departing players. McCullough’s decision surprised many, as he had only recently joined the program and was expected to be a major contributor. Meanwhile, Graham’s move is believed to be influenced by a desire for a fresh opportunity and more playing time.
Coach Venables acknowledged that while these losses are tough, they are part of the evolving nature of college football in the transfer portal era. “We support our players in every step of their journey,” Venables said. “These young men have given their all to Oklahoma, and while we’re sad to see them go, we’re also excited for what lies ahead for each of them.”
The Sooners now face the challenge of filling these vacancies, both through recruitment and internal development. As the program turns the page, fans will be watching closely to see how the team responds and rebuilds with a new core.