The Oklahoma Sooners’ 2025 recruiting class took a hit on Saturday morning with the commitment of 4-star tight end Nate Roberts to Ohio State. Ranked as the No. 139 overall prospect and No. 7 tight end in the class, Roberts was a priority target for Coach Joe Jon Finley.
This loss stings even more considering Roberts’ local ties. Hailing from Washington, Oklahoma, just 15 minutes down the road from Norman, the Sooners seemed to be in a strong position after Roberts decommitted from Notre Dame last summer. They even had the added advantage of having his older brother, Jake Roberts, join the team as a transfer this offseason. However, the Buckeyes ultimately won out, leaving Oklahoma with some questions about their tight end recruiting strategy in the 2025 class.
Finley and his staff did manage to secure a top tight end prospect in the 2024 cycle with the reclassification of in-state standout Davon Mitchell. Mitchell is already enrolled at OU, but the Sooners lack long-term depth at the position beyond the 2024 season. While players like Kade McIntyre and Kaden Helms are developing, the tight end group was a weakness in 2023, and the recent departure of Roberts opens a significant hole in the 2025 recruiting class.
There are still options on the table. Da’Saahn Brame, Linkon Cure, and Chase Loftin are all talented tight ends with interest in Oklahoma. However, none hold the same national ranking or local appeal as Roberts.
Finley will need to act quickly and decisively to secure a top-tier tight end in the 2025 class. Missing out on Roberts, especially considering his proximity to Norman, is a setback. The Sooners can’t afford another whiff at the position if they want to ensure a well-rounded and competitive offense in the coming years.
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