Derrick LeBlanc, nation's No. 9 defensive lineman, commits to Oklahoma Sooners; Class jumps to No. 6 nationally

The Oklahoma Sooners have secured a staggering 15 commitments in the months of June and July, establishing themselves as a contender to finish with the nation's No. 1 recruiting class. 

On Thursday, Brent Venables' program added yet another big-time prospect into the fold, as Osceola High School (Florida) defensive line standout Derrick LeBlanc announced his commitment to the Oklahoma Sooners over Florida and Penn State.

The 6-foot-4, 270-pound All-American Bowl selection is rated the nation's No. 64 overall prospect and No. 9 defensive lineman, making him one of the top defensive prospects in the Sooners' class.

As a junior, the Florida product tallied 38 tackles and eight sacks. 

With LeBlanc in the fold, Oklahoma's recruiting haul jumps from No. 9 to No. 6, leapfrogging Miami, Penn State and Clemson. 

Projected as a future first-round NFL draft pick by 247Sports, LeBlanc is a versatile lineman who could make an immediate impact in Norman:

"Exhibits natural knee bend and hip flexibility in and out of stance. Displays a good first step off the line of scrimmage, playing with good initial foot and body quickness. Utilizes length well at the point of attack, showing the ability to anchor the run and play with power in his pass rush. Flashes good run and chase ability, burst to close. Demonstrates good play speed and plays with natural bend off the edge.

Versatile defensive line prospect that can play in multiple defensive fronts with excellent length and physical traits. Needs to continue to develop as a pass-rusher and refine his technique at the point of attack but has the natural ability to develop into a potential all-conference prospect at the next level. Will need two years to develop before playing into his ceiling at the next level."  

Junior season highlights