Oklahoma Freshman Lineman Deacon Schmitt Aims to Make Early Impact

Schmitt, a 4-star recruit, enrolled early to get a head start on learning the Sooners' offense.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:11pm

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Deacon Schmitt, a highly-touted offensive lineman in Oklahoma's 2026 recruiting class, is hoping to make an immediate impact for the Sooners after enrolling early to participate in spring practice. The 4-star recruit is working to learn the team's playbook and get acclimated to the program, with help from the veteran offensive line.

Why it matters

Oklahoma has made a concerted effort to play freshmen on the offensive line, and Schmitt's early enrollment gives him a chance to potentially break into the starting lineup as a true freshman on a team with high expectations.

The details

Schmitt, who was praised by Oklahoma GM Jim Nagy as a "bully" on the offensive line, has been focused on learning the playbook and getting up to speed with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh's demanding coaching style. While the path to playing time is challenging with several experienced linemen returning, Schmitt is confident he can earn a role this season.

  • Schmitt enrolled early to participate in Oklahoma's spring practice in 2026.

The players

Deacon Schmitt

A 4-star offensive line recruit in Oklahoma's 2026 class who enrolled early to get a head start on his college career.

Bill Bedenbaugh

Oklahoma's offensive line coach, who Schmitt praised as "the greatest offensive line coach in college football."

Jim Nagy

Oklahoma's general manager, who called Schmitt a "bully" and the "benchmark" for future offensive line recruits.

Michael Fasusi

An experienced offensive tackle returning to Oklahoma's starting lineup.

Ryan Fodje

An offensive tackle with starting experience who can also play guard for the Sooners.

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What they’re saying

“Getting here early is such an advantage because you can learn the ins and outs of everything. So for me it's just learning the playbook, getting in my rhythm and getting ready for the season.”

— Deacon Schmitt, Freshman Offensive Lineman

“Deacon Schmitt is just a lot of fun to watch. He's an absolute bully. He's going to be the benchmark moving forward of guys we want to add on this offensive line.”

— Jim Nagy, Oklahoma General Manager

“The whole o-line room has really helped me with all that, just the adjustment period. Obviously, the playbook is going to be a little more in-depth. I went to high school in Colorado; I didn't go to school in Texas … There's a lot more to the football side of things. So just getting used to that. I think the o-line has really helped me.”

— Deacon Schmitt, Freshman Offensive Lineman

What’s next

Schmitt will look to continue learning the playbook and impressing the coaching staff during Oklahoma's spring practice, with the goal of potentially earning playing time as a true freshman in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Oklahoma's commitment to playing young offensive linemen gives Deacon Schmitt a real opportunity to make an early impact, and his early enrollment has put him on the fast track to contributing for the Sooners.