NORMAN — David Stone remembers what it felt like to be the young Oklahoma defensive lineman receiving hard coaching from the veterans in front of him.
At the time, he did not always understand it. Entering the 2026 season as one of the leaders of the Sooners’ defense, Stone now sees the purpose behind it—and accepts the responsibility that comes with occupying the other side of that relationship.
“The biggest thing, Gracen [Halton] used to be on me hard all the time,” Stone said. “Looking back at it, I remember in the moment I was like, ‘Why is he so hard on me?’ Now I’m in this position as a leader, and so I see why.”
That experience has changed Stone’s approach with the younger players developing behind him. Instead of coaching every player the same way, Stone is attempting to understand where each teammate is and then help him reach another level.
“Now I’ve got a different perspective on how to be a player and how to attack everything,” Stone said. “I can kind of relate to the guys because I know how they’re feeling. I know how to try to meet them where they’re at right now. That’s the biggest thing for me—trying to meet the guys where they’re at and pull them to another level.”
Stone believes Oklahoma has the talent and depth to do exactly that across its defensive front. He praised the growth of Trent Wilson, Nigel Smith, Bishop Thomas and Danny Okoye, saying each has made meaningful progress.
Thomas, whom Brent Venables previously described as having a “funky” playing style, has brought noticeable energy to the room.
“He plays fast and physical for somebody his size,” Stone said. “His nickname is ‘Juice.’ He has a lot of juice. He brings it every play. He’s not taking a play off. He’s flying to the ball and striking blocks.”
That depth will be important for a defense carrying considerable expectations. Stone did not shy away from Oklahoma’s larger goal, but he stressed that discipline will determine whether the Sooners can reach it.
“We want to be a team that not only goes to the playoffs, but makes a good run,” Stone said. “Discipline is what separates those teams at the top.”
Stone has also had a close look at the other side of the football throughout camp, and he believes Oklahoma’s offensive line has taken a significant step forward physically.
“I can feel the difference—the pad level of the O-line, the way they come off the ball and come downhill,” Stone said. “I can feel the thump of the guys and how they move together. It’s different.”
He specifically praised sophomore OL Ryan Fodje’s versatility and intelligence, along with true freshman Noah Best’s competitiveness and willingness to learn. Stone said the daily work between Oklahoma’s offensive and defensive linemen has created an “iron sharpens iron” environment.
“Our lockers are right next to each other, so we’re constantly talking, communicating and finding ways to elevate each other’s game,” Stone said. “Noah’s been doing that all of camp. He’s going to be a special player for our team.”
For Stone, however, the season opener against UTEP is ultimately an opportunity to return to what he does best.
“There are a lot of expectations, but at the end of the day, I still have to do my job and play football,” Stone said. “That’s what I’m good at. This is really a time for me to get out on the field and be who I am.”
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