Trade Deadline Shock: Drake Stoops Agrees to a $172.5 Million Contract with Oklahoma – What Does This Mean for the Sooners?
In the world of college football, few events generate as much anticipation and excitement as the trade deadline. This period, often filled with player transfers and coaching changes, can dramatically alter the trajectory of a team’s season. For the Oklahoma Sooners, the 2025 trade deadline came with an unexpected twist, as wide receiver Drake Stoops, who had previously been one of the program’s key players, agreed to a monumental contract worth $172.5 million with the university. This contract not only shakes up the landscape of Oklahoma football but also sends ripples throughout the broader college football landscape.
Let’s break down the significance of this deal, how it impacts the Sooners’ future, and why it marks a shift in how college football teams are engaging with their star players and their long-term futures.
Who is Drake Stoops?
Drake Stoops, the son of Oklahoma Sooners’ legendary coach Bob Stoops, has been a steady presence for Oklahoma in recent years. While he may not be as high-profile as some other college football stars, Stoops has been known for his exceptional work ethic, reliability, and clutch performances in key moments. His ability to step up in crucial games, especially in the Big 12, has made him a fan favorite and a trusted target in the Oklahoma offense.
Since joining the Sooners, Stoops has carved out a reputation as a dependable wide receiver who can make big plays in critical situations. His route running, hands, and ability to gain separation from defenders have allowed him to be a standout contributor in the Sooner offense.
Given his role in the team’s offense, many expected Stoops to be in for a big payday, but no one could have predicted the contract that was recently revealed. A $172.5 million contract—almost unheard of in the realm of college football—shows how highly the university values him and his future contributions to the team.
The Groundbreaking Deal: What Does $172.5 Million Mean?
At first glance, the $172.5 million contract with Drake Stoops may seem almost outlandish, especially in a college football world where such figures are generally reserved for the professional ranks. However, when considering the broader context, this deal can be seen as a reflection of changing dynamics within college athletics.
In recent years, the NCAA has undergone massive changes with the introduction of the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policy, which allows athletes to earn money from endorsements, sponsorships, and other ventures. This policy has led to a more open market for college athletes, and schools have been finding creative ways to engage with their top players financially.
The deal for Stoops represents one of the largest NIL contracts ever signed, signaling Oklahoma’s commitment to retaining its top talent while also bolstering its recruiting efforts for the future. The length and scale of the contract highlight how serious the Sooners are about keeping Stoops within the fold for the long term, despite his already impressive tenure with the team. The contract is structured in a way that involves both a signing bonus and performance incentives, with the base pay being primarily tied to milestones and achievements throughout his career.
Why Did Oklahoma Make Such a Big Move?
The announcement of this deal has raised eyebrows across college football, and many have been left wondering why Oklahoma was so eager to secure Stoops for such a lucrative deal. For the Sooners, the answer lies in several key factors:
1. **Stability and Leadership**: As a player with deep ties to the university, Stoops offers stability in the locker room. His leadership, on and off the field, cannot be overstated. Oklahoma has consistently been one of the top teams in the Big 12 and a perennial contender on the national stage, and Stoops’ presence on the roster has been a crucial part of that. The Sooners have made it clear that they want to build their offense around him for the foreseeable future, ensuring that they have a reliable leader in the receiving corps.
2. **Recruitment and Future Success**: By making such a high-profile move to secure Stoops, Oklahoma signals to future recruits that the university is committed to investing in its players and ensuring that they are well-compensated for their efforts. As college football continues to evolve, it’s becoming clear that programs with deep pockets and innovative approaches to player compensation will be better positioned for success in the coming years.
3. **Expansion of NIL Opportunities**: With the new era of NIL deals, it’s likely that Oklahoma saw an opportunity to further capitalize on Stoops’ marketability. As the son of a former coach, Stoops already has a certain level of name recognition, and this contract may also be seen as a way for Oklahoma to expand its reach, enhance brand visibility, and establish itself as a leader in NIL negotiations.
4. **Positioning for Championship Glory**: The Sooners have set their sights on another College Football Playoff appearance, and securing Stoops’ services for the long-term ensures that the team will continue to have one of the best receivers in the game. Given his consistency and ability to step up in big moments, Stoops will be a key part of Oklahoma’s playoff hopes in the future.
How Does This Affect the College Football Landscape?
Drake Stoops’ $172.5 million contract is a seismic shift in the landscape of college football. With the growing importance of NIL deals and the increasingly lucrative opportunities available for star players, this move could be a blueprint for other programs aiming to retain their top talent.
If other schools follow Oklahoma’s lead and offer comparable contracts to their star players, we could see an even more professionalized college football environment. Programs may invest even more heavily in securing players for the long term, creating financial stability for athletes while also strengthening their team rosters. For coaches and athletic directors, the need to negotiate and offer competitive packages to top players will become more crucial than ever.
Additionally, this deal could spark debates about the future of college athletics and the potential for wage inflation. Critics argue that such large contracts could widen the gap between top-tier programs and those with fewer resources. On the other hand, supporters of NIL rights might argue that this is simply a reflection of the free-market system finally reaching college sports, allowing players to receive the compensation they deserve for their talent and hard work.
Conclusion: A New Era for Oklahoma Football
Drake Stoops’ $172.5 million contract with Oklahoma is a groundbreaking moment in college football. It highlights the ongoing transformation of college athletics and sets a precedent for future NIL negotiations. The Sooners have secured one of their key players for the foreseeable future, and this deal speaks volumes about their commitment to remaining competitive in an increasingly commercialized sport. As Oklahoma continues to make strides in both recruiting and player development, it’s clear that the landscape of college football is changing—one contract at a time.
For Stoops, this deal marks the culmination of a standout career, but for Oklahoma, it’s just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new era. With Stoops’ leadership and the Sooners’ continued investment in their athletes, they’re well-positioned to remain one of the nation’s premier football programs for years to come.