BREAKING NEWS: Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach Brent Venables Overjoyed After Star Edge Rusher R Mason Thomas Delivers Major Announcement
In a moment of celebration and renewed hope for the Oklahoma Sooners football program, Head Coach Brent Venables is riding high after receiving major news from one of his most promising players. Star edge rusher R Mason Thomas has made a game-changing announcement that is already sending shockwaves through the Big 12 and beyond.
According to verified reports from sources close to the team, R Mason Thomas has officially announced his return to the Oklahoma Sooners for the 2025–26 season, turning down multiple NIL opportunities and NFL interest to remain in Norman and finish what he started. The announcement came in a heartfelt statement shared on social media, where Thomas declared:
> “Oklahoma is home. I’ve grown here. I’ve fought here. And now, I want to win here. I’m coming back to lead, to finish strong, and to bring that championship to Norman.”
For Coach Brent Venables, who has worked tirelessly to rebuild and elevate Oklahoma’s defensive identity, the news couldn’t have come at a better time. Venables was visibly emotional during a team meeting where Thomas informed his teammates, reportedly saying:
> “This right here… this is what loyalty, belief, and brotherhood look like. We’re not just building a team — we’re building a legacy. And R Mason Thomas is right at the center of it.”
Thomas has quickly become one of the most respected defensive players in college football. Known for his explosiveness off the edge, relentless pursuit, and ability to change the momentum of a game with a single play, he recorded 11 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and 3 forced fumbles last season — earning All-Big 12 honors and drawing attention from several NFL scouts.
His decision to stay not only boosts Oklahoma’s defense but also sends a powerful message to recruits and current teammates alike: there’s something special being built in Norman, and players are buying in.
Behind the scenes, Thomas reportedly turned down seven-figure NIL deals from other programs, opting instead to focus on team chemistry, leadership, and legacy. His choice speaks volumes in today’s college football landscape, where loyalty is becoming increasingly rare.
Oklahoma fans responded with overwhelming excitement. Social media lit up with hashtags like #RMTReturns and #UnfinishedBusiness, as Sooners faithful flooded message boards and comment sections with messages of support.
For the Sooners, the return of R Mason Thomas changes everything. With a maturing defense, rising quarterback play, and a hungry coaching staff, Oklahoma is now being talked about as a serious playoff contender in the upcoming season.
As Venables continues to shape the identity of this team, the leadership of Thomas will be essential. His decision to return isn’t just about football — it’s about family, grit, and the belief that greatness is still ahead.
In a sport where players often chase the next big thing, R Mason Thomas chose heart over hype — and in doing so, he just might help Oklahoma reclaim its place amon
g college football’s elite.
