The Oklahoma Sooners have always recruited well inside of Oklahoma, especially in the history of this program. Under Brent Venables, it hasn't always been that way, but the 2025 freshman class has quite a few guys from inside the state.
That's not necessarily a good or bad thing, it's all subjective, but it does feel nice if you're a fan from inside the state, to see other kids that are near you go to OU. That's cool, always has been and always will be. That's why it was such a huge deal when guys like Blake Griffin and Trae Young chose OU, and then went pro after being in Oklahoma City and Norman their whole lives.
With the football program, they have the chance to do the same. There is a guy right in their backyard, probably literally, who is set to be a big-time college wide receiver. He's in the 2026 class waiting to commit, but man, he has some real potential.
The only thing is, he's asking a rhetorical question. You know when recruits post their top-five schools remaining before they commit, and the caption says "Where's home?"
This kid, who is from Norman, did just that, and he has Oklahoma in his top five. So, the Sooners may have an answer for the rhetorical question.
Mason James, a four-star wide receiver from Norman North High School in Oklahoma, is a top prospect in the 2026 class. At 5'11" and 175 pounds, he’s known for his speed, sharp route-running, and sure hands.
In his 2024 junior season, he caught 56 passes for over 1,200 yards and 17 touchdowns, leading Norman North to a strong year. Ranked as Oklahoma’s No. 1 player by On3 and a top-50 national wide receiver, he’s a dynamic playmaker who can stretch defenses and gain yards after the catch. And, he plays the way the Sooners would love to have on their offense.
James has nearly 30 D1 offers and recently narrowed his choices to five schools, with Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas, Kansas State, and Washington in the mix. He plans to commit on June 25, 2025, where Oklahoma appears to be the frontrunner, boosted by his visits and connection with receivers coach Emmett Jones.
With official visits lined up, including Washington in June, James is set to make a big impact in college football. The Sooners need him, and they want him.
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