JUST IN: Oklahoma Sooners high profile Star has rejected contract extension,says he wants to leave…
In a startling development for the Oklahoma Sooners, five-star defensive lineman David Stone has reportedly turned down a contract extension and announced plans to leave the program via the transfer portal. The move comes after sources say Stone and his family clashed with the university over his NIL valuation, prompting the decision to explore greener pastures .
Originally heralded as one of the most dominant recruits in the Sooners’ recent classes, Stone appeared poised for a breakout season following a promising spring and weight-gain program. Yet despite expectations of a more substantial role, insiders suggest the disagreement over compensation became untenable. This led to Stone formally entering the transfer portal last month .
On the field, Stone’s potential impact was clear; he recorded six tackles, including two for loss and one sack across 13 games last season. His ascension during spring practice, where he increased both size and explosiveness, further heightened anticipation that he’d lock down a starting spot . His departure now leaves a significant void in Oklahoma’s defensive front.
The public dispute has raised difficult questions about the Sooners’ NIL strategy. According to coverage from Sports Illustrated, Stone’s family believed the university had undervalued his role and earning potential, a sentiment that Stoke’s camp says was never adequately addressed . The situation underscores how dynamic NIL negotiations have become in roster retention.
For coach Brent Venables and the Sooners staff, navigating this loss will be a critical test. Oklahoma must decide whether to offer a revised NIL package to retain Stone, redirect its recruiting efforts, or stand firm and potentially signal a shift in how future negotiations are approached. With draft-eligible players departing and portal movement intensifying, the Sooners’ response carries significant weight.
