LOOK: Oklahoma coach Todd Bates at game of 5-star DL David Hicks

Katy (Texas) Paetow five-star defensive lineman David Hicks will not be uncommitted for much longer. The 6-foot-4, 270 pound prospect is announcing his decision on Sept. 28 and choosing between Alabama, Miami, Michigan State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Texas A&M.

The Sooners are working hard to land Hicks’ pledge. That’s likely a key reason why Oklahoma co-defensive coordinator and defensive tackles coach Todd Bates is attending the five-star’s game against Fulshear (Texas) Jordan on Friday night.

Oklahoma DL coach Todd Bates on hand to see Katy (Tex.) Paetow five-star DL David Hicks Jr.

Hicks is announcing his commitment next week @On3Recruits pic.twitter.com/NOzOHhP0TB

— Tim Verghese (@TimVerghese) September 24, 2022

Hicks told On3’s Sam Spiegelman that Bates is one of the coaches he talks to the most from the Sooners. He is also impressed by Bates’ defensive knowledge.

“(Head coach Brent Venables), coach Bates and (defensive backs) coach (Jay) Valai are some of the smartest defensive line coaches and defensive minds out there,” Hicks said. “To know how their defense runs is pretty cool. Coach Venables can get you one-on-one in any type of situation.”

According to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, the Sooners have a commanding lead for Hicks’ pledge at 77.5%. He has made five unofficial visits to Oklahoma and will be taking his official visit on Nov. 18.

Hicks has an On3 NIL Valuation of $248K. The On3 NIL Valuation is an index that looks to set the standard market value for both high school and college-level athletes. The NIL valuation does not act as a tracker of the value of NIL deals an athlete has completed to date. It rather signifies an athlete’s value at a certain moment in time.

David Hicks On3 Scouting Summary

The following is the On3 Scouting Summary for David Hicks:

“Physically-developed defensive lineman with advanced power along with length and quickness. Possesses a big frame with a muscled build and an 80-inch wingspan at 6-foot-4. Has brute strength which he pairs with initial quickness to create steady disruption along the line of scrimmage. Consistently shows quick and powerful hands at the point of attack with some advanced pass rush technique for a young defensive lineman.

“Very much a power player at this point in his development, but plays with some nuance and technical skill. Working at both defensive end and defensive tackle as a junior at a powerhouse program in Texas’ highest classification. A strong, but not elite athlete. Turned in dominant showings at college camps prior to his junior season.”