Oklahoma Sooners land in the top five teams for elite 2026 defensive weapon waiting to make his decision

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables has a type when it comes to his favorite types of players on the defensive side of the ball. Remember now, yes, he is the head coach, but this guy is one of the best defensive minds in college football over the last decade or so.

And in 2025, he's going to be running the defense again, after having an elite defense in 2024. When he's looking for players that are going to get on the field in his defensive system, he's looking for guys who are extremely athletic, versatile, and smart. He likes guys who can do multiple things on the field, which is why the cheetah position is so important in his defense.

He could soon get a recruit that fits that mold perfectly, as the Sooners just landed in the top five for this player, who could be making his decision soon.

Sooners land in top five for 2026 defensive weapon Niko Jandreau

Niko Jandreau is a three-star safety from Hamilton High School in Chandler, Arizona, class of 2026. Standing at around 6’1” and 185 pounds, he’s a versatile defensive back known for his athleticism and instincts in pass coverage. 

Niko’s recruitment has taken off, with 11 scholarship offers from Power Four schools, including Oklahoma, USC, Arizona State, Boise State, Iowa State, Missouri, San Diego State, and Washington. He’s scheduled official visits to Oklahoma, Washington, Iowa State, San Diego State, and Oregon State, though Oregon State hasn’t offered him yet.