The Oklahoma Sooners are still searching for their next defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, but athletic director Joe Castiglione remains optimistic. Following the university’s Board of Regents meeting on Thursday, Castiglione stated that the process is “going well” and hinted that a decision could be coming soon.
“I think it’s very close,” Castiglione said.
Oklahoma had initially targeted former Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, reportedly offering him up to $3 million annually. However, Knowles chose to accept Penn State’s offer, making him the highest-paid assistant coach in the country. Now, the Sooners must pivot to other options as they look to replace Zac Alley, who left for West Virginia after just one season.
Brent Venables’ Role in the Defense
If Knowles had joined Oklahoma, head coach Brent Venables might have taken a step back from direct defensive responsibilities, embracing more of a CEO role. Now, with Knowles out of the picture, it’s unclear whether the Sooners will hire a new defensive play-caller or simply bring in a linebackers coach with a co-defensive coordinator title.
Regardless of the hire, one thing is clear—this is still Venables’ defense. Even with Alley leading the defense last season, the system and philosophy remained Venables’ own. That fact is evident in how the Sooners have retained and attracted defensive talent despite not having a coordinator in place for over a month.
Defensive Talent Returns for 2024
Even with the uncertainty at defensive coordinator, Oklahoma’s defensive unit remains strong heading into 2024. Several key players have announced their return, including:
- R Mason Thomas (DE)
- Damonic Williams (DT)
- Peyton Bowen (S)
- Robert Spears-Jennings (S)
- Kip Lewis (LB)
- Kobie McKinzie (LB)
- Gracen Halton (DT)
- Jayden Jackson (DT)
Additionally, OU has secured commitments from key defensive players in the transfer portal, including star edge rusher Marvin Jones Jr. from Florida State and Kendal Daniels from Oklahoma State. These additions suggest that recruits and transfers still believe in Venables’ defensive system, even in the absence of a named coordinator.
Does OU Even Need a New Defensive Coordinator?
Given Venables’ extensive defensive background and history of leading elite units at Oklahoma and Clemson, some argue that he should simply take on the role himself rather than hiring an outside candidate.
Venables, who won national championships at both schools as a defensive coordinator, has already transformed Oklahoma back into a defensive-minded program after years of relying on high-powered offenses to win games. If he trusts his staff—co-defensive coordinators Todd Bates and Jay Valai, as well as safeties coach Brandon Hall, who has previous DC experience—he could easily run the defense himself while delegating some responsibilities.
If the Sooners really did offer Knowles $3 million, in today’s NIL-driven college football landscape, that money might be better spent on recruiting and player development rather than another coach.
Five Potential Candidates for OU’s Defensive Coordinator Role
If Oklahoma does move forward with hiring a new defensive coordinator, there are still solid options available. Here are five candidates who could be in the mix:
1. Wes Goodwin (Former Clemson DC)
Goodwin took over as Clemson’s defensive coordinator when Venables left for Oklahoma. Despite a disappointing 2023 season, he still led a top-25 defense in both 2022 and 2023 and helped Clemson win an ACC Championship. Goodwin has deep ties to Venables and could be an easy plug-and-play hire.
2. Travis Williams (Arkansas DC)
Williams led Arkansas to its best defensive season in nearly a decade despite a tough SEC schedule. His unit allowed 25 points per game, just slightly more than Oklahoma’s 21.54. Williams has experience in the SEC and could bring a fresh approach to the Sooners’ defense.
3. Scott Symons (SMU DC)
Symons was a semifinalist for the 2024 Broyles Award and led an SMU defense that ranked seventh in FBS against the run. He recently signed an extension with SMU, but money talks—especially considering Oklahoma was willing to offer Knowles $3 million.
4. Bryan Brown (Ole Miss Co-DC/DBs Coach)
Ole Miss had one of the top defenses in the country this past season, allowing just 14.4 points per game (second-best nationally). Brown has deep ties to Ole Miss but could be lured away for the right opportunity and salary.
5. Internal Promotion (Hall, Bates, or Valai)
There’s still a strong possibility that Venables opts to promote from within. Brandon Hall has been a defensive coordinator at three previous stops, while Todd Bates and Jay Valai already hold co-defensive coordinator titles. Given that Venables still runs the defensive scheme, promoting someone internally could provide continuity while saving resources.
What’s Next for Oklahoma?
As February approaches, the Sooners’ coaching search should be nearing its conclusion. Whether they bring in an external hire or promote from within, one thing remains constant—this will still be Brent Venables’ defense.
With a strong returning core and key additions from the transfer portal, Oklahoma’s defense is positioned well for 2024. The biggest question isn’t necessarily who the defensive coordinator will be, but rather if Venables is willing to fully take the reins himself and bet on what has already made him a successful coach.
Oklahoma fans should expect a decision soon, and whoever lands the job will step into a unit that’s already built for success under Venables’ leadership.
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