Oklahoma boasts impressive depth and talent at cornerback heading into 2025, and if the group stays healthy, the Sooners’ defense could take another big step forward.
Leading the way is sophomore Eli Bowen, who burst onto the scene as a Freshman All-American despite beginning the year third on the depth chart. His standout performance against Alabama’s Ryan Williams—also a Freshman All-American—was among the best cornerback play OU has seen in recent memory.
The younger brother of starting safety Peyton Bowen, Eli was a 3-star recruit from Denton Guyer. He cracked the starting lineup in Week 6 against Texas and never looked back. Known for his instincts in coverage and physicality as a tackler, he quickly established himself as Oklahoma’s top corner once he took the field.
Bowen (5-9, 187) led the team with a Pro Football Focus defensive grade of 80.5. He also posted a coverage grade of 78.1—highest among OU defenders—and an 85.4 run defense grade, third-best among players with at least 200 snaps. He logged 510 total snaps on defense, 404 of them at corner. Bowen did miss part of spring practice with a lower-body injury, but it’s not expected to affect his status for the season.
Oklahoma’s cornerback room is one of the most talented on the roster, but the Sooners need a few key players to stay healthy to maximize that potential.
Head coach Brent Venables and cornerbacks coach Jay Valai are hoping redshirt junior Gentry Williams can lock down the other starting corner spot opposite Eli Bowen—and for good reason. At 6-0, 187 pounds, Williams has SEC-level speed and shutdown ability, but his recurring shoulder issues have been a major obstacle. He appeared in just two games last season before undergoing a second surgery, and durability remains his biggest question mark. If he can stay healthy, he could be a difference-maker.
Senior Kani Dolby, who shifted to the nickel—or “cheetah” linebacker—role last year, is back at corner after suffering a dislocated and fractured ankle against Tennessee. He may still be regaining full strength and explosiveness, but his experience will be valuable as the depth chart settles.
If Williams or Dolby aren’t fully ready, junior Jacobe Johnson is a prime candidate to step up. At 6-2, 202 pounds, he has the size and athleticism coaches covet, and he saw the field in all 13 games last year. He recorded 18 tackles (16 solo) and played 414 total snaps, including 237 on defense. However, his 49.2 PFF defensive grade reflects the inconsistency that still needs ironing out.
Sophomore Devon Jordan quietly put together a solid freshman season, mainly contributing on special teams. He appeared in 12 games and logged 116 total snaps, including 42 on defense. Coaches and teammates alike have praised his performance during spring practice.
Redshirt freshman Jeremiah Newcombe also saw limited action last season, playing in three games and recording 21 snaps (20 on defense). He notched two tackles and one pass breakup, including a 12-snap outing against Maine.
Behind them is a group of talented but unproven freshmen. Courtland Guillory, Trystan Haynes, and Maliek Hawkins—who reportedly had a strong spring—are all in the mix to contribute if called upon.
If the Sooners can keep Williams healthy and develop consistency among the younger corners, this position could be a real strength in 2025.
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