Oklahoma Sooners pass rusher R Mason Thomas explains the story behind his unique name and R stands for

If the Oklahoma Sooners are going to beat the Tennessee Vols in Norman on Saturday night, they'll need a big performance from junior defensive lineman R Mason Thomas. 

Thomas, a former four-star recruit from Florida (his dad, Harvey, played for the Gators), has had a solid start to the 2024 season for the Sooners, totaling four tackles for loss, three sacks, and a fumble recovery in three games. 

If you're wondering what the R in Thomas' name stands for, you're likely not alone. You don't see many initials standing alone at the beginning of names. 

The R, however, doesn't actually stand for anything. Thomas explained the reason behind his unique name during a recent appearance on The REF 1400. 

"It doesn't stand for anything," said Thomas. "Some people put a period there (after the R). My first name is R Mason. There's a space in between the capital R and the capital M. My mom didn't want me to be an R name, like Richard or Raymond. But on her side of the family, [there's] a lot of R names. Her dad, her grandfather, my uncle, her brother, even his son's name starts with an R. She didn't want an R name, but she wanted to keep the R going, so she made it R Mason." 

There you have it. Thomas' name is a unique take on a family tradition.