Danny Okoye to Oklahoma; Sooners land nation's No. 6 defensive end

The Oklahoma Sooners are getting serious in the trenches.

Entering the week, the class of 2024 already boasted IMG Academy (Florida) five-star defensive lineman David Stone and Melissa (Texas) four-star edge-rusher Nigel Smith II.

But the group got even stronger Wednesday.

NOAH Homeschool (Oklahoma) four-star defender Danny Okoye, the nation's No. 6 defensive end, announced his commitment to the Sooners over fellow finalists Tennessee and Texas.

In truth, the writing had been on the wall for a few weeks.

Following a visit to Oklahoma earlier this fall, Okoye was blown away, stating that the trip "scrambled (his) brain" and that all other visits were being put on hold.

"I'm not gonna lie when I went on the OU visit, I had a top six," Okoye said. "After that trip I was ready to name a top three."

Shortly thereafter, the coveted in-state prospect canceled his remaining two official visits and scheduled a commitment date.

Turns out, that visit to Oklahoma was a complete game-changer.

"It was definitely different," Okoye said. "I've never been to Oklahoma on a gameday with (Brent) Venables there. Being in that environment with the energy that he brings, it was definitely a change of pace." 

Throughout the recruiting process, the defensive end said one of the major keys to his recruitment was feeling like his landing spot would be a good fit on and off the field.

The Sooners checked that box when he talked one-on-one with former Oklahoma team captain Caleb Kelly, who specializes in career and professional development following a playing career cut short by injuries.

"I had a great conversation with Caleb Kelly," Okoye said."What happened with him, he was going to go to the NFL, got injured, but he was still able to accomplish his goals in life because the program cared enough about the person, not just the player. Getting to see that aspect of the program was eye-opening."

As a junior, Okoye registered 43 tackles, 16 tackles-for-loss, six sacks, a forced fumble and an interception. 

Overall, Oklahoma has added major beef up front in the 2024 recruiting cycle. 

The latest addition comes from close to home.

Okoye is a Sooner! 

Junior season highlights