Oklahoma’s defense is about to get even stronger, as versatile star Kendel Dolby announced he’s returning for another season in 2025! Under Brent Venables’ leadership, the Sooners are reloading and Dolby’s return is a huge boost.
Joining Dolby are fellow defenders Robert Spears-Jennings and Damonic Williams, who are both skipping the NFL draft for one more year of dominance at OU. The excitement doesn’t end there – fans are also eagerly waiting on defensive end R Mason Thomas to confirm his future plans.
Although injuries held Dolby back in 2024, his earlier performances were nothing short of impressive. Before his season-ending injury in Week 4 against Tennessee, he was a standout at Venables’ hybrid “cheetah” position – a perfect blend of linebacker and defensive back. In just three games, Dolby racked up 10 tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss, and a quarterback hurry. In 2023, his first year at the D1 level, he posted 49 tackles, 5 TFLs, 2 sacks, 4 QB hurries, and 2 interceptions.
With only three games played in 2024, Dolby qualifies for a redshirt and will be eligible for 2025. The NCAA’s new ruling also means his previous seasons at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M won’t affect his eligibility. After four years in college, Dolby still has two more seasons to go if he decides to continue!
With all this talent returning, Oklahoma’s defense is primed to be even fiercer in the seasons ahead.
