Oklahoma Adds Wrestler, Son of WWE Legend, as Walk-On Defensive Lineman
The Oklahoma Sooners have added a new name to their football roster, but this one comes with a unique background. Luke Hager, the son of WWE legend Jake Hager—better known as Jack Swagger in professional wrestling—has joined Oklahoma as a walk-on defensive lineman. Hager, who has a strong wrestling pedigree, will look to make an impact on Brent Venables’ squad as he transitions to collegiate football.
A Name with Wrestling Legacy
Luke Hager comes from a family known for its dominance in combat sports. His father, Jake Hager, made a name for himself in WWE, where he held the World Heavyweight Championship and was known for his impressive combination of size, strength, and athleticism. Before his professional wrestling career, Jake was a standout amateur wrestler at the University of Oklahoma. He was an All-American in 2006 and set a school record for most pins in a single season.
Following his WWE career, Jake Hager transitioned to mixed martial arts, where he competed in Bellator, showing his versatility as an athlete. Now, his son Luke will attempt to carve out his own path—not in the wrestling ring, but on the football field.
Hager’s Athletic Background
Unlike his father, Luke Hager has focused more on football than wrestling, though he does have experience in both sports. At 6-foot-4 and around 250 pounds, he has the size and frame to develop into a contributor on the defensive line. His background in wrestling has likely helped him develop a strong understanding of leverage, hand placement, and body control—key traits for success in the trenches.
While he was not heavily recruited as a football player, his potential as a walk-on makes him an intriguing addition to Oklahoma’s roster. Brent Venables, known for his defensive expertise, could help mold Hager into a serviceable player within the Sooners’ system.
The Walk-On Opportunity
Walk-ons in college football often face a challenging road to earning playing time, but Oklahoma has a history of developing under-the-radar players into contributors. If Hager can translate his wrestling background into football skills, he could find a role in Oklahoma’s defensive rotation, especially in goal-line or short-yardage situations where his size and physicality could be an asset.
Hager’s journey will also be one to watch given the increased visibility of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities. With his father’s legacy and potential crossover appeal to WWE and MMA fans, Hager could capitalize on branding opportunities if he finds success on the football field.
What’s Next for Hager?
While it’s unclear how soon Hager will see playing time, his addition to Oklahoma’s roster is an exciting one. With his father’s wrestling and combat sports influence, Luke Hager brings a unique background to the Sooners. If he can harness his physical tools and develop under Venables’ coaching, he may just become an unexpected contributor for Oklahoma in the coming seasons.