— In a move that has electrified Sooner Nation and sent shockwaves throughout college football, Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables was reportedly “overjoyed” after receiving unexpected but thrilling news from star edge rusher R Mason Thomas.
After weeks of speculation surrounding his future, Thomas officially announced his decision to return for the 2025 college football season, bypassing the NFL Draft and committing to one more year in Norman.
The announcement came in dramatic fashion during a closed-door team meeting this morning, where Thomas addressed teammates and coaching staff with a heartfelt message. According to sources in the room, the junior defensive standout emphasized “unfinished business,” and a burning desire to “bring a national title back to Oklahoma.”
“Coach Venables was absolutely beaming,” said defensive coordinator Ted Roof. “He knows what this means for our defense. Mason’s leadership, his speed off the edge, and his relentless motor are unmatched. His return instantly boosts our championship hopes.”
Thomas had a breakout season in 2024, recording 11.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and earning All-Big 12 honors. Many draft analysts projected him as a late first-round pick, but the Florida native felt he had more to prove — both on and off the field.
“OU isn’t just a stop for me; it’s a mission,” Thomas said in a social media video minutes after the team meeting. “We’ve got the talent. We’ve got the culture. And we’ve got the fire to bring that trophy home. Let’s finish what we started.”
The news immediately went viral, with fans, alumni, and former players flooding social media with messages of support. “That’s a championship move,” tweeted former OU linebacker Kenneth Murray. “Let’s ride, R Mason!”
Venables, who is entering his fourth season as head coach, called Thomas’ return a defining moment. “R Mason is the heartbeat of our defense,” Venables said in a statement. “His commitment to this team shows the kind of character and leadership we’re building here at Oklahoma.”
With a stacked defensive line, a top-5 recruiting class, and now their star edge rusher returning, the Sooners look poised to make a serious run in their inaugural SEC season.
Sooner fans, get ready — the hunt is on.
