The state of Oklahoma’s tight end room in 2024 was undeniably one of the more perplexing and disappointing aspects of the team’s overall performance. This unit’s struggles were made even more glaring given the otherwise optimistic outlook surrounding Oklahoma’s offense, which featured promising talent in both the quarterback position and the offensive line. However, despite the tight ends’ underperformance last season, there remains a sense of optimism for the future of the group, as there are multiple factors to consider that could contribute to its eventual resurgence.
A Rough 2024 for Oklahoma’s Tight End Room
When examining Oklahoma’s 2024 season, the tight end room stood out in the worst possible way. The Sooners had an offense that was often expected to be dynamic, with a quarterback poised to lead the team and a historically strong offensive line providing protection. Yet, the tight ends seemed to be an afterthought in the game plan, often irrelevant in the passing game and underused in the run-blocking schemes. This inconsistency and lack of contribution were troubling, especially considering the tight end position is often seen as a key cog in modern offenses—serving both as an extra blocker and a receiving threat.
The struggles didn’t come from a lack of talent in the room, as the Sooners had recruits and players with potential. The issue was more systemic, linked to coaching and scheme execution. While Oklahoma’s quarterback play had its moments of brilliance, and the offensive line was competent, the tight ends were not a focal point in any way, which ultimately limited the offense’s potential. It wasn’t as if the unit was simply made up of poor players; rather, the lack of involvement and development made it clear that there was a disconnect between the tight ends and the rest of the offense.
One of the biggest disappointments was the inability to develop a reliable, versatile tight end who could both block effectively and serve as a legitimate receiving threat. In an offense that has historically relied on tight ends for both of these roles, this omission felt like a major missed opportunity. The tight ends seemed invisible during crucial games, with many of their snaps being inconsequential, and there was little-to-no positive impact from the position in critical moments.
The Mysterious Coaching Decision
One of the more confusing elements of the 2024 season was the retention of the tight end coach, despite the unit’s glaring struggles. Given that the coaching staff made significant changes in other areas, many fans and analysts were left baffled as to why the tight end coach was allowed to remain in the role. With such underwhelming results from the tight ends, the decision raised eyebrows, and it was widely debated whether a change at the coaching level could have led to better development and performance from the group.
While it’s difficult to speculate on the internal dynamics at play, one can only assume that the staff believed there was some value in keeping the continuity with the current coaching structure. There may have been a belief that with more time, the tight ends could eventually progress and fulfill their potential. However, this is a risky stance, as offensive success often hinges on maximizing the talents of every position group. If the tight ends were being left behind, it was hard to understand why the coaching staff chose to ignore the issue for another season.
The Optimism for the Future
Despite the disappointments of 2024, there is still reason for optimism when looking toward the future of Oklahoma’s tight end room. Several factors could help transform this group into a strength for the Sooners in the coming years.
1. Talent Development
Even though the tight ends did not perform up to expectations in 2024, the talent within the room is undeniable. The Sooners have recruited some solid prospects at the position, with players who possess both the physical traits and potential to be effective blockers and receiving threats. With proper coaching and development, these players could become central pieces in the offense, providing both the versatility and skill needed to be a consistent threat.
Players like 2024 recruit Ethan Stroud, who has been described as an elite dual-threat tight end, could provide a much-needed spark for the unit. His blend of size, athleticism, and natural hands make him a potential game-changer who could contribute right away. Oklahoma’s staff will need to focus on refining his blocking techniques while continuing to develop his route-running and pass-catching abilities. His arrival, along with other talented recruits, could inject much-needed competition and motivation into the tight end room.
2. System Adjustments
As with any underperforming unit, part of the solution lies in tweaking the system to fit the personnel better. In 2024, it seemed the tight ends were an afterthought in the offense, which ultimately contributed to their struggles. Oklahoma’s offensive system needs to adjust to incorporate the tight ends in a more meaningful way. This could mean more two-tight-end sets, utilizing the tight ends in play-action situations, and ensuring that they are used as both blockers and receiving options in key moments.
A change in offensive philosophy, with a greater focus on utilizing the tight ends as legitimate threats, would go a long way in unlocking their potential. The tight ends should be used in a variety of roles—whether that be in-line, in the slot, or even split wide in certain situations. By diversifying the ways in which the tight ends are deployed, the Sooners could force opposing defenses to account for them more often, which would open up the offense as a whole.
3. Coaching Continuity
While the retention of the tight end coach was a puzzling decision for some, it’s possible that the coaching staff recognizes the potential in the current room and believes that with more time and refinement, the unit could flourish. Continuity can often help players develop at a more consistent pace, especially when there is a trust between coach and player. If the coaching staff remains committed to developing the tight ends and continues to tweak the offense to make better use of their talents, there is a real possibility that the unit could turn the corner in the next few seasons.
4. The Return of Quarterback Play
The 2024 quarterback play, while improving, was still inconsistent in some areas. The development of the quarterback position has a huge impact on the success of the tight ends. As quarterbacks become more comfortable with their reads and progressions, they will naturally develop a better rapport with their tight ends. When a quarterback trusts their tight end to be a reliable safety valve, it opens up the possibility for more pass-catching opportunities, thus increasing the tight end’s role in the offense.
If the quarterback position continues to evolve, there’s a strong possibility that the tight ends will see more targets and involvement in the offense.
Conclusion
While Oklahoma’s tight end room was one of the most disappointing units of the 2024 season, the future remains bright. With an influx of talented recruits, potential adjustments to the offensive system, and a more developed quarterback, there are several factors that could lead to a resurgence of the tight end position. Although the 2024 season may have been frustrating, the Sooners have the tools in place to improve, and it will be exciting to see how the unit evolves in the coming years. With the right adjustments and player development, Oklahoma’s tight ends have the chance to once again become a focal point of the offense, contributing in both the passing game and as key blockers in the run game.
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