Oklahoma Sooners Score Major Recruiting Win as Explosive Running Back DeZephen Walker from Raymore-Peculiar High School Officially Commits to the 2026 Class….Read More…..

The Oklahoma Sooners continue to make waves on the recruiting trail as they secured the commitment of highly regarded running back DeZephen Walker, a dynamic playmaker from Raymore-Peculiar High School in Missouri, for their 2026 recruiting class. Walker’s announcement adds significant firepower to Oklahoma’s backfield of the future, further cementing the Sooners’ reputation for attracting elite offensive talent.

Walker, who stands out for his explosiveness, speed, and versatility, is viewed as one of the top running backs in his class. His commitment not only strengthens the Sooners’ running game pipeline but also sends a strong message to the rest of college football that Oklahoma remains an elite recruiting force, even in the new era of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

For Walker, the decision to commit to Oklahoma was the culmination of months of recruiting attention. The Sooners had made him a top priority early, with coaches frequently checking in, inviting him to campus visits, and outlining a clear vision for his development in Norman. In the end, the relationships built with the Sooners’ coaching staff, particularly running backs coach DeMarco Murray, played a pivotal role. Murray, a former Oklahoma legend and NFL Pro Bowler, has become a respected recruiter who connects well with young backs, and Walker cited his confidence in Murray’s ability to maximize his potential as one of the main reasons he chose OU.

“I felt at home every time I visited Norman,” Walker said in his commitment video. “Coach Murray and the staff really believe in me, and I believe in their vision. I want to be part of something special at Oklahoma and help bring championships.”

Walker’s skill set brings plenty of excitement to the Sooners’ offense. Known for his burst off the line, elite vision, and ability to change direction on a dime, he thrives both as a traditional runner between the tackles and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. At Raymore-Peculiar, he consistently put up eye-catching numbers, showcasing his ability to break off long touchdown runs while also grinding out tough yards against strong defenses. His versatility will fit perfectly into Oklahoma’s modern offensive system, which values running backs who can both carry the ball and stretch defenses in the passing game.

Recruiting analysts have noted Walker’s upside, with some projecting him to develop into one of the more complete backs in the country by the time he steps onto a college field. His blend of athleticism, football IQ, and toughness makes him a player who can contribute early in his college career. The Sooners’ 2026 class was already shaping up well with commitments across multiple positions, but Walker’s addition adds a headliner to the group.

This commitment also reflects Oklahoma’s broader recruiting strategy as the program prepares for its continued journey in the SEC. The Sooners have placed a premium on building depth and athleticism across all positions, and Walker represents the type of player who can thrive against the elevated competition the SEC offers. By adding a high-level running back from Missouri, the Sooners are also expanding their recruiting footprint, showing they can successfully compete for talent beyond their traditional base of Texas and Oklahoma.

The impact of Walker’s decision goes beyond just the football field. His commitment is expected to generate momentum for the Sooners’ staff as they continue to target other elite prospects in the 2026 cycle. Often, securing a commitment from a highly regarded player early helps attract attention from other recruits, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire class. With Walker now onboard, other offensive and defensive stars may take a closer look at Oklahoma, increasing the possibility of more high-profile commitments in the months ahead.

For fans, Walker’s pledge is another reason to be optimistic about the Sooners’ future. Oklahoma has long been associated with standout running backs — from Billy Sims to Adrian Peterson to DeMarco Murray and more recently players like Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine. Walker now joins that proud lineage, and Sooners fans will be eager to see if he can become the next name in the program’s storied history of producing elite backs.

In the short term, Walker will continue to sharpen his skills at Raymore-Peculiar, where he is expected to be a centerpiece of the team’s offense for the next two seasons. For the Sooners, his progress will be closely monitored, but the coaching staff is confident that his blend of work ethic, raw ability, and competitive drive will translate well when he arrives in Norman.

With Walker’s commitment, Oklahoma’s 2026 class now features a cornerstone piece in the backfield — one that could play a pivotal role in shaping the Sooners’ offensive identity for years to come. As the countdown to National Signing Day continues, the Sooners’ faithful can celebrate the addition of a player who embodies both the talent and the determination needed to thrive in Norman.