Oklahoma
After a disappointing 6-7 season during head coach Brent Venables first fall in charge of the Sooners, it came as no surprise that Oklahoma took an aggressive approach in the portal during this cycle. This was especially true on the defensive side of the ball, where several additions should be key contributors this fall.
Leading the way in this group is linebacker Dasan McCullough (Indiana), who showcased a great deal of potential during his impressive true freshman season in 2022. Other players to keep an eye on include defensive end Rondell Bothroyd (Wake Forest) and defensive back Reggie Pearson (Texas Tech). Along with Bothroyd, the line was completely overhauled with Trace Ford (Oklahoma State), Davon Sears (Texas State) and Da’Jon Terry (Tennessee) all likely to see major time.
While most of the attention went to the defensive side of the ball, the offense also added a few key pieces like offensive linemen Caleb Shaffer (Miami-Ohio) and Walter Rouse (Stanford) and wide receiver Brenen Thompson (Texas).
TCU
The Horned Frogs took advantage of their magical run to the National Championship game by successfully adding several important pieces to their 2023 roster. This was especially true at the wide receiver position, where TCU needed an influx of talent and depth after losing Quentin Johnson to the NFL and Jordan Hudson to the portal.
They responded by adding JoJo Earle (Alabama), Jack Bech (LSU), John Paul Richardson (Oklahoma State), Jaylon Robinson (Ole Miss) and Dylan Wright (Minnesota). Despite losing Johnson and Hudson, an argument can be made that the position will be more dynamic this fall.
TCU also added one of the more intriguing portal players, running back Trey Sanders (Alabama). After being hobbled by injuries during most of his time in Tuscaloosa, the former five-star recruit will now have a chance to revitalize his career in Fort Worth.
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Baylor
After taking a light dip into the portal pool during the 2021/2022 cycle, the Bears dove straight into the deep end during this cycle with several key additions. Both sides of the ball should see a boost due to this more aggressive approach.
Offensively, the brother lineman duo of Campbell and Clark Barrington (BYU) are both in line to start, while running back Dominic Richardson (Oklahoma State), wide receiver Ketron Jackson (Arkansas) and tight end Jake Roberts (North Texas) should add a needed spark. Also, keep an eye on quarterback Sawyer Robertson (Mississippi State), who pushed returning starter Blake Shapen during the spring and will see time if the incumbent falters.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Mike Smith (Liberty) has made an immediate impact since arriving during the winter, while defensive back Isaiah Dunson (Miami-Florida) has positioned himself to be a reliable part of the secondary.
