The Sooners have made a significant addition to their roster, securing a commitment from Skyridge guard Darius Afalava, who attracted nearly two dozen scholarship offers. Despite only entering the mix two months ago, Oklahoma successfully landed the coveted offensive lineman from Utah.
The Polynesian Bowl all-star from Lehi (Utah) Skyridge announced his commitment to the Sooners on Friday, live on the 247Sports Instagram account. Afalava chose Oklahoma over nearly two dozen other offers, including UCLA, Michigan State, Utah, and Washington.
What Darius Afalava Says About Oklahoma
“I really believe in coach Bill Bedenbaugh and his ability to develop players for the next level,” Afalava said. “They’ve got a great staff there and they all did a great job on my official visit. I’m stepping out of my comfort zone going to Oklahoma, but I know it’s going to get me better and I’m excited to be a Sooner. Meeting with coach Brent Venables was great, and I felt really comfortable around the whole staff. Coach B is a straight-up dude. He’s very real, and I really like that about him. Off the field he’s really nice, but on the field and in coaching you, he’s going to be hard on you to get the best out of you.”
Who Else Was in the Mix?
The 6-foot-5, 320-pound Afalava took official visits to UCLA (May 10), Michigan State (May 31), Utah (June 3), and Washington (June 21).
Where Darius Afalava Ranks as a Recruit
Afalava is rated as the nation’s No. 31 interior offensive lineman and No. 4 overall prospect in Utah for the 2025 class. He ranks No. 7 at his position in the West region.
How Darius Afalava Fits with Oklahoma
Oklahoma has only signed one high school player from Utah—former four-star offensive lineman Kenyon Frison (2014)—in the modern recruiting era dating back to 2000. Afalava becomes the second-highest rated commit along the offensive line for Bedenbaugh this cycle, behind tackle Ryan Fodje. Afalava emphasized that it meant a lot to know he was a major priority for the staff at the guard position.
He demonstrates terrific footwork and hand usage at the point of attack, using his size and strength to neutralize pass rushers and create wide running lanes. Afalava has the build to potentially contribute early during his time in Norman if necessary.
What Fans Think About Darius Afalava
Afalava is expected to be a significant factor in the Sooners’ offensive line room. “He’s among the most physical linemen out West and just mauls opposing defensive linemen”. “He’s a powerful kid, and once he gets his hands on you, the play is over. He will routinely drive his man clear out of the screen before burying him in the ground. He has a heck of a punch and can floor a player with a routine shove. He shows good agility getting out on pulls and sweeps and has no issues getting to the second level and burying a linebacker or safety.”