Boomer Sooner

The University of Oklahoma has a storied football program, renowned for its rich history, national championships, and legendary players. The Sooners have produced some of the most iconic figures in college football, many of whom have gone on to achieve greatness in the NFL. From Heisman Trophy winners to record-setting performers, Oklahoma’s football legacy is built on the shoulders of exceptional talent. This article explores the best Oklahoma football players of all time, focusing on their contributions to the program and their lasting impact on the sport.

Barry Switzer’s Era: The Foundation of Greatness

Oklahoma football reached new heights under head coach Barry Switzer, whose tenure from 1973 to 1988 produced three national championships and numerous standout players. One of the most celebrated Sooners from this era is running back Billy Sims (1975–1979). Sims won the Heisman Trophy in 1978 after rushing for 1,896 yards and 22 touchdowns in a single season. His elusive running style and ability to break tackles made him a nightmare for defenses. Sims’ impact extended beyond college, as he became the No. 1 overall pick in the 1980 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. His blend of speed and power remains a benchmark for OU running backs.

Another Switzer-era star is linebacker Brian Bosworth, known as “The Boz.” Bosworth was a two-time Butkus Award winner (1985, 1986) as the nation’s top linebacker and a key figure in Oklahoma’s 1985 national championship. His flamboyant personality and relentless play style made him a fan favorite. Bosworth’s 1986 season, where he recorded 133 tackles, showcased his dominance. Though his NFL career was short-lived due to injuries, his legacy at OU remains untouchable.

The Heisman Legacy: Oklahoma’s Trophy Winners

Oklahoma has produced eight Heisman Trophy winners, tying for the most in college football history. Beyond Sims, quarterback Steve Owens (1967–1969) was a workhorse who won the Heisman in 1969. Owens rushed for 4,041 yards and 57 touchdowns in his career, setting school records at the time. His bruising running style epitomized the physicality of OU football during the Wishbone offense era. Owens’ consistency and durability made him a cornerstone of the program.

More recently, the 21st century has seen a surge of Heisman winners from Oklahoma, particularly at the quarterback position. Jason White (1999–2004) won the Heisman in 2003 after throwing for 3,846 yards and 40 touchdowns. Despite battling knee injuries, White’s leadership and precision passing led OU to the BCS National Championship game. His resilience in the face of adversity made him a fan favorite.

Sam Bradford (2007–2009) followed suit, winning the Heisman in 2008 as a redshirt sophomore. Bradford’s pinpoint accuracy and ability to read defenses made him one of the most efficient passers in college football history. In his Heisman-winning season, he threw for 4,720 yards and 50 touchdowns, leading OU to the BCS National Championship game. Bradford’s success helped usher in a new era of high-powered offenses at Oklahoma.

Baker Mayfield (2015–2017) redefined the quarterback position at OU. Known for his fiery competitiveness and swagger, Mayfield won the Heisman in 2017 after throwing for 4,627 yards and 43 touchdowns. His improvisational playmaking and clutch performances, including leading OU to the College Football Playoff, cemented his legacy. Mayfield’s impact extended beyond statistics; he brought a new level of energy to the program and later became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Kyler Murray (2017–2018) succeeded Mayfield and won the Heisman in 2018. A dual-threat quarterback, Murray threw for 4,361 yards and 42 touchdowns while rushing for 1,001 yards and 12 scores. His electrifying play style and ability to extend plays made him a highlight machine. Murray’s decision to pursue the NFL over Major League Baseball (where he was also a first-round pick) paid off, as he became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Defensive Stalwarts: The Backbone of OU Football

While Oklahoma is often associated with high-powered offenses, its defense has produced some of the game’s greatest players. Lee Roy Selmon (1972–1975) is widely regarded as one of the best defensive linemen in college football history. A two-time All-American, Selmon was a dominant force on the defensive line, helping OU win national championships in 1974 and 1975. His combination of size, speed, and technique made him unblockable. Selmon went on to have a Hall of Fame NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his impact at OU remains legendary.

Roy Williams (1999–2001) redefined the safety position with his versatility and playmaking ability. A hybrid defender who could cover receivers, stop the run, and blitz, Williams was a key figure in OU’s 2000 national championship. His iconic “Superman” play against Texas in 2001, where he leaped over the line to block a pass and force a game-winning interception, is etched in OU lore. Williams earned All-American honors and later became a Pro Bowler in the NFL.

Offensive Innovators: Skill Position Stars

Oklahoma’s offense has been fueled by dynamic skill players who have left their mark on the program. Wide receiver Ryan Broyles (2008–2011) is OU’s all-time leading receiver, with 349 catches for 4,586 yards and 45 touchdowns. Broyles’ route-running and hands made him a favorite target for quarterbacks like Bradford and Landry Jones. Despite battling injuries, his consistency and production set the standard for OU receivers.

Running back Adrian Peterson (2004–2006) is one of the most physically gifted players in OU history. As a freshman in 2004, Peterson rushed for 1,925 yards and finished second in Heisman voting, a rare feat for a first-year player. His combination of speed, power, and vision made him a generational talent. Though injuries hampered his college career, Peterson’s dominance at OU foreshadowed his Hall of Fame-caliber NFL career.

The Modern Era: Lincoln Riley’s Offensive Explosion

Under head coach Lincoln Riley (2017–2021), Oklahoma’s offense reached new heights, producing stars like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (2017–2019). Lamb’s 3,292 receiving yards and 32 touchdowns showcased his ability to make contested catches and create yards after the catch. His versatility as a receiver and return specialist made him a matchup nightmare. Lamb’s success carried over to the NFL, where he became a Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts (2019) transferred to OU for his final college season and thrived in Riley’s system. Hurts threw for 3,851 yards and 32 touchdowns while rushing for 1,298 yards and 20 scores, finishing second in Heisman voting. His leadership and dual-threat ability helped OU reach the College Football Playoff, solidifying his place among OU’s elite quarterbacks.

Legacy and Impact

The best Oklahoma football players share common traits: exceptional talent, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. From the Wishbone era under Switzer to the Air Raid offenses of Riley, these players have adapted to the evolving game while leaving an indelible mark on the program. Their contributions extend beyond statistics; they’ve inspired generations of Sooners and elevated OU to one of the premier programs in college football.

Players like Sims, Bosworth, Bradford, and Mayfield have become synonymous with Oklahoma football, embodying the program’s tradition of toughness, innovation, and success. Their achievements—Heisman Trophies, national championships, and NFL stardom—have solidified OU’s place in football history. As the Sooners continue to compete at the highest level, the legacy of these players serves as a reminder of the program’s greatness and a foundation for future stars to build upon.

In conclusion, Oklahoma’s football history is a tapestry of legendary performances and iconic figures. From the dominant defenses of the 1970s to the high-flying offenses of the 21st century, the best OU players have shaped the sport and left a lasting legacy. Their impact transcends the field, making them not only the best in Oklahoma history but also among the greatest in college football.