The Oklahoma Sooners received a significant boost to their defense with the announcement that standout defensive end R Mason Thomas will return for the 2025 season. Thomas, who had been contemplating entering the NFL Draft, made his decision public via social media on January 6, 2025. citeturn0search5
In the 2024 season, Thomas emerged as a formidable force on the defensive line. He recorded 23 tackles, including 13 tackles for loss, and led the team with 9 sacks. His disruptive presence also resulted in two forced fumbles, underscoring his impact in critical game situations. citeturn0search0
Thomas’s performance was instrumental in several key victories for the Sooners. Notably, he registered two sacks in the win over Auburn and contributed a sack in the upset against Alabama. His ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently made him a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s defense. citeturn0search5
Despite his impressive statistics, Thomas felt there was room for personal growth. After extensive discussions with the coaching staff and a thorough evaluation of his game film, he recognized areas needing improvement. “We went through all the film, just wanted to see what I could work on,” Thomas said. “It was a lot of things I could work on. Not a complete player.” citeturn0search0
One specific area Thomas aims to enhance is his run defense. To address this, he has focused on increasing his physicality by gaining weight and building lean muscle. Since the end of the 2024 season, he has added six pounds, bringing his weight to 249 pounds. “I wanted to focus on my run game,” Thomas noted. “With that, I needed to add weight, power, lean muscles. So I got with the nutrition and strength staff to get me right.” citeturn0search0
The return of Thomas is timely for the Sooners, especially as they prepare for their second season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His leadership and experience are expected to be invaluable assets as the team navigates the challenges of competing in one of college football’s most formidable conferences. citeturn0search2
Head coach Brent Venables expressed pride in Thomas’s development and commitment to the program. “Proud of the leadership he’s exemplified for all of our players and his commitment from beginning to end,” Venables remarked. citeturn0search6
Teammates have also lauded Thomas’s decision to return. Marvin Jones Jr., a transfer from Florida State expected to play opposite Thomas on the defensive line, praised his counterpart’s skills and character. “R Mason, he’s such a special player, quick, aggressive, just everything you want out of a defensive end,” Jones said. “And what stuck out to me was obviously, everybody knows how good of a player he is, but he’s 10 times the person. He’s a leader all around.” citeturn0search0
Looking ahead, Thomas is focused on achieving greater consistency and refining his routine. “Just gotta stay with the routine,” he stated. “It’s hard to, because it’s my third spring, my fourth year, so the consistency is just find the routine and stick with it.” citeturn0search0
In summary, R Mason Thomas’s decision to return for the 2025 season is a significant development for the Oklahoma Sooners. His commitment to personal improvement and dedication to the team’s success bode well for the upcoming season. As the Sooners continue their journey in the SEC, Thomas’s presence is expected to play a pivotal role in bolstering the defense and guiding the team toward its goals.
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