Oklahoma 4-Star Defensive Line Prospect Shocks Recruiting World, Commits to Oklahoma State Over Sooners in Bold Statement
In a decision that sent tremors across the college football landscape, 4-star defensive line prospect Tyrese “TJ” Benton announced his commitment to Oklahoma State on Saturday afternoon, turning down offers from powerhouse programs including Oklahoma, Texas, and LSU. The 6-foot-4, 270-pound pass-rushing phenom from Broken Arrow High School made the announcement in front of a packed gymnasium, clad in an orange Cowboys cap and flanked by his parents and high school coaches.
> “I’ve prayed on it, talked it over with my family, and followed my heart,” Benton said during the live-streamed event. “I’m staying home in Oklahoma — but I’m taking my talents to Stillwater. Go Pokes!”
The commitment marks a major recruiting coup for Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy, who has been aggressively building up his defensive front with high-upside local talent. Benton is ranked the No. 12 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 3 overall player in Oklahoma, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. His blend of strength, motor, and explosiveness off the edge had long made him a top target for both the Cowboys and the Sooners.
For weeks, insiders had projected Benton to lean toward the Sooners. OU’s history of producing NFL defensive talent and its entry into the SEC had been key selling points. But Benton’s relationships with OSU defensive line coach Joe Bob Clements and new defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo reportedly swayed the decision.
> “They made me feel like more than just a number,” Benton said. “Coach Gundy told me I could be the face of this defense — not just in year three or four, but from day one.”
Sources close to Benton say the culture in Stillwater — and the opportunity to help rewrite the in-state rivalry narrative — played a crucial role. OSU’s recent defensive resurgence and back-to-back top-25 finishes also helped make the case that the Cowboys are primed to compete on a national stage.
Meanwhile, OU fans expressed disappointment but understanding across social media platforms. The Sooners still maintain a top-five national recruiting class, but Benton’s decision is viewed as a symbolic win for OSU, which has often found itself in the shadow of its cross-state rival in major recruiting battles.
> “He’s a difference-maker,” said ESPN Recruiting Analyst Tom Luginbill. “This isn’t just a get — it’s a statement. Oklahoma State went head-to-head with the big boys and walked away with a blue-chip prospect from their own backyard.”
Benton finished his junior season with 78 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, and three forced fumbles, anchoring one of the top defenses in Oklahoma high school football. He also runs track and competes in shot put, showcasing rare athleticism for a lineman.
He plans to enroll early in January 2026 to participate in spring football and begin his transition into the Cowboys’ defensive rotation. Stillwater fans already have a nickname brewing: “Boomer-Blocker.”
> “I respect OU. They’re a great program,” Benton said with a grin. “But I want to build something different. I want to be the guy that helped Oklahoma State take it to the next level.”
With Benton’s pledge, Oklahoma State not only gains a game-wrecking lineman but also sends a message to recruits across the state: the road to greatness doesn’t have to go through Norman anymore.
