In a stunning twist that’s rocked the Oklahoma Sooners football program, former five-star defensive tackle David Stone has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking one of the most significant offseason departures for OU. The decision came shortly after reports surfaced regarding a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) fallout, with sources close to the situation saying Stone was in tears over the events that unfolded behind closed doors.
A Promising Start Cut Short
Stone, a true freshman standout in 2023, played in all 13 games for the Sooners, totaling six tackles, including two tackles for loss and a sack. Despite limited statistics, Stone was expected to anchor the defensive line in 2024, particularly as Oklahoma transitions fully into SEC competition.
His departure is especially painful for the Sooners, considering he was the only five-star recruit in Oklahoma’s 2024 class and served as a cornerstone for their future defense.
Insiders report that NIL compensation changes played a central role in Stone’s unexpected exit. As Oklahoma restructured several deals during the spring, some athletes reportedly saw reduced compensation packages. For Stone, the implications were personal and emotional.
The move has sparked frustration among fans and analysts alike, with many claiming it’s “a bad look from Oklahoma’s side,” especially considering Stone’s impact and long-term potential. In today’s NIL-driven era, programs are being held accountable not just for wins and losses, but for how they treat their student-athletes off the field.
In this era, nothing surprises me anymore, and I no longer care who goes.
— Tierani (@tierani_kristen) April 19, 2025
Due to SEC intra-conference transfer rules, Stone cannot transfer to another SEC program and play in the 2025 season. That limits his immediate destinations but still leaves high-profile programs outside the conference in the mix. With three years of eligibility remaining, he is expected to be a hot commodity in the transfer portal.
Portal Chaos Continues
The spring transfer window, which opened on April 16 and runs through April 25, continues to shake up college football rosters. Oklahoma has been active on both ends, adding major talent like Jaydn Ott and John Mateer, but also losing key contributors like Stone.
Stone’s exit underscores the volatile nature of modern college football, where NIL agreements and personal development now weigh just as heavily as depth charts and playbooks.
The loss of Stone is a gut punch for a Sooners team preparing for its second year in the SEC, where defensive line depth is crucial. His departure raises questions about Oklahoma’s NIL management and player retention strategies, questions that could influence future recruiting cycles.
KEEP READING: 5 Transfer Portal Landing Spots for DT David Stone
For now, all eyes will be on where David Stone lands next, and whether Oklahoma can recover from losing the defensive anchor they believed would be a long-term difference maker.
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