Breaking News: Oklahoma Sooners Defensive Stars Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas Announce Return for 2025 Season Delaying NFL Dreams………

Breaking News: Oklahoma Sooners Defensive Stars Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas Announce Return for 2025 Season Delaying NFL Dreams………

In a stunning announcement that has captured the attention of the college football world, Oklahoma Sooners defensive standouts Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas have declared that they will be returning for the 2025 season, putting a temporary halt on their aspirations of entering the NFL Draft. This decision has significant implications for the Sooners’ defense and the landscape of college football, as it represents a major boost for the program’s defense and a testament to the loyalty and determination of these two young talents.

A Big Win for the Sooners

Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas, both standout performers on Oklahoma’s defense, were expected to enter the NFL Draft, with many analysts predicting them to be high draft picks due to their stellar performances this past season. Their decision to return for another year in Norman is a huge victory for the Sooners’ coaching staff, led by head coach Brent Venables. The move ensures that the defense will continue to have two of its top contributors for the upcoming season, giving the team a considerable advantage heading into 2025.

Kip Lewis: The Defensive Leader

Kip Lewis, a linebacker who has made a significant impact on Oklahoma’s defense since his arrival, is considered one of the most talented young players in college football. With his exceptional instincts, leadership qualities, and ability to impact the game both in the run game and in pass coverage, Lewis had quickly become one of the anchors of the Sooners’ defensive unit.

This season, Lewis showed incredible versatility, excelling in multiple roles for the team. He demonstrated the ability to rush the quarterback, drop into coverage, and make crucial tackles in the open field. His leadership and performance were vital to the team’s success throughout the year. Many expected him to declare for the NFL Draft, where he was projected to go in the early rounds due to his athleticism and potential at the next level.

However, after careful consideration and discussions with family, coaches, and mentors, Lewis made the decision to return for his junior year. He stated that his unfinished business with the Sooners was one of the driving forces behind the decision, emphasizing his desire to help bring Oklahoma back to national prominence and improve his game even further before making the leap to the professional level.

“I’ve got a lot more to prove,” said Lewis in his announcement. “I feel like I can grow even more as a player, and I want to help lead this team to a championship. There’s no better place to do that than at Oklahoma. I’m not ready to leave yet, and I’m excited to get back to work with my teammates.”

R Mason Thomas: The Defensive Force on the Edge

R Mason Thomas, a rising star on the defensive line, has also decided to return for another season in Norman. Known for his relentless pass-rushing ability, Thomas has been one of the most disruptive players on Oklahoma’s defense over the past two years. His combination of speed, strength, and technique has made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, and his performances were often the highlight of the defense.

Thomas’ decision to return is especially noteworthy because of his status as one of the most coveted defensive prospects in college football. With a relentless motor and the ability to change the course of a game with a single play, Thomas was widely regarded as one of the top edge rushers eligible for the 2024 NFL Draft. However, much like his teammate Kip Lewis, Thomas opted to delay his professional dreams in order to return to the Sooners for another season. His choice to stay in college is a testament to his dedication to improving his craft and leading Oklahoma to a championship.

“I’ve had a great experience here, and I know I have more to learn,” Thomas said. “I want to come back, be a leader for this defense, and make sure I’m as prepared as possible for the next level when the time comes. This decision wasn’t easy, but I believe it’s the right one for me and my future.”

Impact on Oklahoma’s 2025 Season

With both Lewis and Thomas returning, Oklahoma’s defense will be in a strong position heading into the 2025 season. Their experience and talent will be key for the Sooners, who are looking to bounce back from some of the struggles they faced in the 2024 season. Their leadership will be crucial in a defense that is looking to take the next step in Venables’ system.

Lewis and Thomas will form a powerful duo, with Lewis’ ability to cover the field and Thomas’ ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Together, they will anchor a defense that is aiming to become one of the best in the country. The two players’ decision to return also provides a sense of stability and continuity for the team, which will be crucial for Oklahoma as they face off against some of the toughest competition in the Big 12 and the nation.

Head coach Brent Venables expressed his excitement and gratitude over the decision, calling it a “game-changer” for the program. “Kip and Mason are not only exceptional players but also exceptional leaders,” Venables said. “Their decision to return speaks volumes about their character and commitment to this team. We’re excited to continue to work with them and see how they help us elevate this defense to even greater heights.”

The Bigger Picture: Delaying NFL Dreams

The decision by Lewis and Thomas to forgo the NFL Draft for another season also reflects a broader trend in college football. With the introduction of the NCAA’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, more and more players are choosing to stay in school longer before making the jump to the professional ranks. In Lewis and Thomas’ case, both players are in a position where they could potentially earn significant money through NIL deals, making it easier for them to delay their NFL aspirations without sacrificing financial security.

Moreover, both players have expressed that they feel they still have work to do on the field. For Lewis, his return could allow him to continue to develop as a well-rounded linebacker, further improving his skills in coverage and as a pass rusher. For Thomas, a return for his junior season could help him refine his technique and add more versatility to his game, ensuring that he is fully prepared for the next level when the time comes.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 season now looks even brighter for the Oklahoma Sooners, with two of their top defensive players returning to the fold. Kip Lewis and R Mason Thomas’ decisions to delay their NFL dreams will be pivotal in shaping the future of the program. Fans in Norman have reason to be excited as these two stars continue their journeys with the Sooners, with the hope that their leadership and talent will help bring Oklahoma back to the top of college football.