Heading into 2024, a breath of fresh air surrounds the Oklahoma Sooners’ tight end group after a production-starved 2023 season. Last year, the tight ends combined for a meager 20 receptions, 252 yards, and just two touchdowns, with Austin Stogner shouldering most of the responsibility (791 snaps, 50.2 PFF grade). However, with Stogner and Blake Smith departed, the Sooners are confident in the improved depth and talent at the position.
A Tale of Two Seasons: From Veteran Hope to Disappointing Reality
The arrival of Stogner, a former Sooner who transferred back from South Carolina, initially sparked optimism. Coach Joe Jon Finley, a former Sooner tight end himself, envisioned Stogner as a veteran leader. Unfortunately, Stogner’s production never matched his 2022 season (26 receptions, 422 yards, 3 touchdowns), culminating in a meager 17 receptions for 196 yards in 2023. The overall tight end output mirrored this decline, with a mere 252 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns compared to the previous three years’ average of 51 receptions and 617 yards.
New Leadership, Renewed Focus
With a renewed focus on the position, new co-offensive coordinators Seth Littrell and Coach Finley are determined to reignite the tight end’s impact. The departure of Stogner necessitated a return to the transfer portal, and Oklahoma secured the services of experienced players Jake Roberts (Baylor) and Bauer Sharp (Southwestern Louisiana).
Experience and Potential: A New Look Tight End Group
Roberts, a Norman native and fifth-year senior, brings leadership and familiarity with the Sooners’ system. Sharp, a redshirt junior, adds a dose of versatility with his receiving and rushing ability. These two veterans project as the current leaders on the depth chart.
The Future is Now: Freshman Star Davon Mitchell
But the most intriguing figure might be freshman Davon Mitchell, a highly-touted recruit who reclassified to 2024. Mitchell boasts impressive receiving stats from high school and possesses the potential to be a significant contributor early on.
A Crucial Role in a New Conference
With the Sooners entering the SEC, a conference known for its physical defenses, the tight ends will be even more critical in creating mismatches and providing receiving options. Their ability to block effectively and become reliable receiving threats will be paramount to success.
Unveiling the New Identity
The exact utilization of the tight ends remains to be seen. Will they primarily be blockers, receiving targets, or a versatile blend of both? The skillsets of the current group suggest a potential for a two-pronged approach.
A Return to Former Glory?
The outlook for the Oklahoma Sooners’ tight ends is cautiously optimistic. With a revamped group, experienced coaching, and a talented freshman, the position is poised for a resurgence. Their performance will be a key factor in the Sooners’ offensive efficiency and overall success in the challenging SEC landscape.
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