Sooners Notebook: LB Kobie McKinzie to Enter Portal, Offseason Roster Turnover Begins
NORMAN — The offseason roster movement for the Oklahoma Sooners has begun in earnest, just days after their College Football Playoff exit. Redshirt junior linebacker Kobie McKinzie, a key contributor over the past few seasons, is expected to enter the transfer portal when it officially opens on January 2.
McKinzie’s Impact
McKinzie has been a steady presence in the middle of Brent Venables’ defense. Over his four years in Norman, he tallied 84 total tackles and 2.5 sacks, developing from a highly touted recruit into a reliable rotational piece. In the 2025 season alone, he recorded 32 tackles and one sack, playing a vital role in the linebacker rotation.
His departure leaves a potential void in experience, especially with fellow linebacker Kip Lewis reportedly weighing an entry into the 2026 NFL Draft.
Linebacker Room in Transition
The potential exits of McKinzie and Lewis signal a changing of the guard for the Sooners’ defense.
- Owen Heinecke remains in limbo as he awaits an NCAA decision on a sixth year of eligibility.
- Younger players like Lewis Carter and Samuel Omosigho will likely be called upon to step into larger leadership roles heading into spring ball.
- The staff is expected to be aggressive in the portal to find veteran reinforcements to pair with their younger talent.
Coaching Stability?
While the roster is shifting, the coaching staff remains relatively quiet regarding official changes as of Sunday. Despite fan speculation surrounding the offensive staff following the 24-point outing against Alabama, Head Coach Brent Venables has not announced any immediate staff evaluations or departures.
The focus now shifts fully to roster management and the upcoming signing day in February.
