A Dream Come True: Nate Dreiling Reflects on ‘Humbled’ Journey as He Takes on New Role as Oklahoma Sooners Linebackers Coach
For Nate Dreiling, the journey to becoming the Oklahoma Sooners linebackers coach has been nothing short of a dream realized. A former standout player with a relentless work ethic and a deep love for the game, Dreiling has steadily risen through the coaching ranks, fueled by passion, perseverance, and a humble mindset. Now, stepping into his new role with one of college football’s most storied programs, he reflects on the path that brought him here — one marked by grit, gratitude, and growth.
Dreiling’s football story began in earnest as a player at Pittsburg State University, where he earned All-American honors and led his team to a Division II national championship. Known for his leadership and instincts on the field, Dreiling was the kind of player who made others around him better. That same quality has carried over into his coaching career, where he’s known not just for his strategic mind, but for the way he builds genuine relationships with his players.
His coaching journey took him through multiple programs, from the small-college circuit to roles with greater responsibility at the FBS level. Most recently, Dreiling made waves as the defensive coordinator at New Mexico State, where he helped turn around a struggling defense into one of the most disciplined and aggressive units in the conference. His impact was clear — not only in the stats, but in the energy and confidence his players brought to the field.
Now at Oklahoma, Dreiling joins a program with championship aspirations and a passionate fan base. The opportunity, he says, is one he doesn’t take lightly. “It’s truly humbling,” Dreiling shared. “To be part of this tradition, to coach at a place like OU — it’s something I’ve dreamed about for a long time. I’m here because of so many great mentors, teammates, and players who’ve shaped me along the way.”
As linebackers coach, Dreiling inherits a group with raw talent and high potential. His approach emphasizes fundamentals, physicality, and football IQ — values that reflect his own playing style. But beyond the X’s and O’s, it’s his ability to connect that sets him apart. Former players often speak of how Dreiling believed in them when few others did, how he pushed them not just to be better athletes, but better men.
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables, himself a legendary linebacker coach, has praised Dreiling’s attention to detail and leadership. “Nate’s one of those guys who just gets it — he knows what it takes to succeed, and he knows how to bring that out in his players,” Venables said.
With spring practices underway and the 2025 season on the horizon, Dreiling is focused, motivated, and ready to make an impact. “I know where I came from, and I know what this opportunity means,” he said. “I’m going to give everything I’ve got — for the players, for this program, and for the dream that got me here.”
In Norman, the next chapter of Nate Dreiling’s story is just beginning — and it’s already inspiring.