I CAN’T BELIEVE HE’S LEAVING: Oklahoma Star David Stone Makes Stunning Exit, Expected to Transfer After Growing Frustrated With Support Issues
College football has been rocked by a shocking development as highly regarded Oklahoma defensive lineman David Stone has announced his unexpected departure from the program. The news, which has spread rapidly across social media and fan forums, marks a major shift for the Sooners just months ahead of the new season — and raises serious questions about the internal dynamics of the team.
Stone, a former five-star recruit and one of Oklahoma’s most promising young talents, is reportedly set to enter the transfer portal after growing increasingly disillusioned with what sources describe as a “lack of consistent support and alignment” from within the program. His exit, abrupt and without a clear public explanation, has left fans and insiders stunned.
“I can’t believe he’s leaving,” said one longtime Oklahoma supporter on X (formerly Twitter). “We watched him commit with so much pride, and now he’s walking away. Something’s not right behind the scenes.”
Stone had been viewed as a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s defensive future. Recruited with immense expectations, he showed flashes of brilliance during his freshman campaign, combining elite athleticism with raw power and high football IQ. Coaches and analysts frequently praised his potential to develop into a game-changing player — possibly even a future first-round NFL Draft pick.
However, according to multiple sources close to the program, Stone’s frustration had been building for some time. Issues reportedly ranged from a lack of clarity in his developmental path and insufficient communication from the coaching staff, to concerns over how the program was handling player welfare and individual progress. While details remain scarce, it’s clear Stone no longer felt the environment was best suited for his growth — both on and off the field.
In a brief statement shared via Instagram, Stone expressed appreciation for his time in Norman while signaling his intent to move forward:
> “Oklahoma gave me memories I’ll never forget. I’m grateful for the teammates and fans who had my back. But after a lot of thought, I’ve decided it’s time for a fresh start somewhere I can continue to grow — as a player and a person.”
Head coach Brent Venables, who has prioritized culture and discipline during his tenure, acknowledged the decision during a media availability Friday afternoon but declined to elaborate on the internal matters leading to the transfer.
> “We respect David’s decision and wish him nothing but success. He’s a talented young man, and wherever he ends up, they’ll be lucky to have him.”
Speculation is already swirling around potential landing spots, with multiple SEC and Big Ten programs reportedly showing interest. For Stone, the transfer may represent a chance to find a program better aligned with his ambitions and personal expectations.
