10 bold predictions for Oklahoma’s 2026 season
- Jackson is entering his first fully healthy season and should receive a larger defensive-tackle role after producing five tackles for loss and three sacks in a rotation last year.
- Powers has won the full-time Cheetah role after a strong camp, placing him in a high-volume hybrid assignment against the run, in coverage and near the line of scrimmage.
- Oklahoma must replace R Mason Thomas but retains several pass-rush options, led by seven-sack returner Taylor Wein with Adepoju Adebawore and Danny Okoye expected to take larger roles.
- Hatton's 235-pound frame and strong camp have positioned him for immediate short-yardage and goal-line work with a chance to overtake Xavier Robinson and Lloyd Avant for the lead-back role.
- True freshman Best spent much of camp with the first-team line at right guard and can also play center, while Lloyd Avant enters the opener as the top kickoff returner despite an uncertain offensive role.
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