Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman informs coaching staff he's headed to the NFL
Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman, a key part of the Sooners defensive rebuild in Norman, told head coach Brent Venables he will enter the NFL draft, sources confirmed to SoonerScoop.com.
Stutsman, the anchor for OU’s defense, showed marked improvement as a playmaker and leader in his second season as a starting linebacker.
The junior led the team with 99 total tackles in 2023. Those totals ranked him 24th in the country and second in the Big 12 conference.
Although, those numbers came after Stutsman suffered a severe ankle injury against Kansas in the first half.
Following the half, Stutsman limped off the field after just one play in the second half.
Additionally, Stutsman missed the following week in OU’s Bedlam showdown with Oklahoma State.
Rise of Stutsman as OU’s defensive leader
Stutsman, from Foundation Academy in Windermere, Fla., was named an All-Big 12 First Team selection in 2023.
That accolade came after he was tabbed just an Honorable Mention selection in 2022.
Furthermore, sources confirm to SoonerScoop the staff was informed Stutsman will not play in the Alamo Bowl.
Even without Stutsman, the Sooners have a deep room of linebackers with Jaren Kanak, Kip Lewis and Kobie McKenzie.
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Overall, each player logged significant playing time this season. Lewis, who replaced Stutsman in the Oklahoma State game, led all tacklers with 15 tackles.
Stutsman has yet to publicly announce his intentions via social media.
Other potential moves to the NFL
While all eyes have been on then portal, the Sooners have other potential early entries into the NFL draft to keep an eye on over the next week.
Junior offensive tackle Tyler Guyton did not play in 2 of the Sooners final three games during the 2023 season.
Conversely, in OU’s home finale against TCU, Guyton only played sparingly after transferring to Oklahoma from that school.
Another offensive linemen to keep an eye on is starting center Andrew Raym. Raym recently sent out social media posts of himself training out in Los Angeles. SoonerScoop.com has already reported on the likelihood of his departure.
