The recruiting trail is heating up, and the Oklahoma Sooners are right in the middle of it. DeAnthony Lafayette, a highly coveted three-star defensive end out of Lake Nona High School in Orlando, Florida, has officially narrowed his college decision to two final programs—and Oklahoma has made the cut.
Standing at 6-foot-5 with elite athleticism and a relentless motor, Lafayette has become one of the most talked-about edge prospects in the Southeast. His blend of size, speed, and raw power has made him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines, and college coaches across the country have taken notice.
Under the guidance of head coach Brent Venables, Oklahoma has been aggressively pursuing Lafayette throughout the recruiting cycle. The Sooners’ staff has pitched a compelling vision—immediate development, SEC-level exposure, and the chance to be a cornerstone of OU’s next defensive wave. That message has clearly resonated with the Florida standout.
Lafayette’s other finalist remains unnamed publicly, but recruiting insiders suggest it could be Florida State, setting up a dramatic Big 12 vs. ACC battle for one of Florida’s most explosive defenders.
Lafayette is expected to make his college decision in the coming weeks, likely before his senior season kicks off. While he has kept things quiet on social media, sources indicate that he’s been impressed by Oklahoma’s facilities, coaching staff, and long-term vision for player development—especially at the defensive end position.
Last season at Lake Nona, Lafayette recorded double-digit sacks and consistently disrupted opposing offenses. He has shown the versatility to play in multiple alignments across the defensive front, making him a valuable asset in today’s hybrid defensive systems.
For Oklahoma, landing Lafayette would be a massive win on the recruiting trail, especially as the program prepares to compete in the SEC. His potential commitment would bolster an already promising 2025 class and help solidify the Sooners’ reputation as a national destination for elite defensive talent.
As the countdown to commitment day begins, all eyes are on DeAnthony Lafayette—and Oklahoma is doing everything it can to bring this rising star to Norman.
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