Drake Stoops was always going to be a fan favorite, being the son of former Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops. But he was able to produce on the field as well, being a critical part of the Sooners during his time in Norman. Now heading into the NFL world, his dream is being fulfilled as an undrafted free agent
The Los Angeles Rams have signed Stoops, his agent Kelli Masters announced on Saturday night. Stoops will have the opportunity to work under head coach Sean McVay and begin the battle of making the 53-man roster this fall.
“Okay, Sooner fans…the waiting is over. DRAKE STOOPS IS A LOS ANGELES RAM!!!!! Welcome to the NFL, @Drake_stoops !! @OU_Football @RamsNFL #KMMfamily #NFLDraft,” Masters said via X.
Stoops was a six-year player for Oklahoma, being a member of the 2018 recruiting class out of Norman North High School. Lincoln Riley signed him as a walk-on and eventually worked his way to a scholarship player in 2021.
The production was incredible during the 2023 season, being Oklahoma’s top receiver. He finished with 84 receptions for 962 yards and 10 touchdowns while averaging 11.5 yards per catch. Stoops had a 100-yard game on three different occasions, with the best being 164 yards and three touchdowns in a win against West Virginia.
“There’s so many phases of my life that have been here,” Stoops said about his time at Oklahoma at OU Pro Day. “In terms of being a player, just the people. All my teammates, all my coaches. That’s what I’ll always remember. Especially the teammates. Just being able to bond. Football’s such a hard spot and it’s year-round and the offseason is grueling. Just being close with your guys, it’s kinda like a fraternity you’ll have for the rest of your life.
“I’ll never forget the memories I made here, especially off the field and in the locker room, all that, especially on the field. The sagas of defeat and all the great triumphs we’ve had like OU Texas, all those crazy memories and all those crazy wins. You share that with your buddies. It’s a bond that can never be broken.”
Los Angeles did address wide receiver during the draft itself on Saturday afternoon, taking Texas‘ Jordan Whittington in the sixth round. Now, there will be a fun Red River Shootout aspect to rookie minicamp in Oxnard as they both battle for roster spots.
More must-reads: