BREAKING: Five-Star Kicker Trace Rudd Commits to Oklahoma Sooners, Rejecting Offers from Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M in the 2026 Class

BREAKING: Five-Star Kicker Trace Rudd Commits to Oklahoma Sooners, Rejecting Offers from Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M in the 2026 Class

 

In a major recruiting win for Brent Venables and the Oklahoma Sooners, five-star kicker Trace Rudd has officially announced his commitment to Oklahoma, choosing Norman over powerhouse programs Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M. The commitment adds yet another elite special teams weapon to the Sooners’ 2026 recruiting class, which is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation.

 

Rudd, considered by most recruiting analysts as the No. 1 kicker in the 2026 class, is known for his powerful leg, precision accuracy, and poise under pressure. The Texas native has consistently impressed scouts with his ability to nail field goals from beyond 55 yards and send kickoffs deep into the end zone. His combination of distance, consistency, and composure has drawn comparisons to some of the top kickers currently in the college and professional ranks.

 

Speaking to reporters after his announcement, Rudd said that Oklahoma “felt like home” from the moment he visited. “Coach Venables and the entire special teams staff made me feel like I was part of the family,” Rudd said. “Oklahoma’s commitment to developing every aspect of their program — offense, defense, and special teams — really stood out. I want to be part of something special in Norman.”

 

The Sooners have made special teams a growing emphasis under Venables’ leadership, and the addition of a player of Rudd’s caliber signals that Oklahoma intends to maintain a complete and balanced roster heading into the future SEC competition. With the Sooners transitioning fully into SEC play, having a dependable kicker who can perform under high-stakes pressure will be invaluable.

 

Recruiting experts note that Rudd’s decision is another sign that Oklahoma is becoming a top destination not only for elite offensive and defensive recruits but also for top-tier specialists. His commitment is expected to elevate the Sooners’ 2026 recruiting class ranking even further, possibly pushing it into the top five nationally.

 

Rudd’s high school coach described him as a “once-in-a-generation talent” who thrives on competition. “Trace has the mentality you want in a kicker — calm, confident, and clutch. He’s hit game-winners from 50-plus yards more than once. Oklahoma is getting someone who will change games,” the coach said.

 

For Oklahoma fans, Rudd’s commitment is yet another reason for optimism about the program’s future. With elite prospects joining across multiple positions, the Sooners are positioning themselves as a true national contender for years to come.

 

 

As for Rudd, his focus is clear: “I’m coming to Norman to help the Sooners win championships,” he said with a smile.

 

With his decision now official, the Sooners have landed one of the most coveted special teams prospects in the country — and perhaps the best kicker to commit to the program in years. The future in Norman just got a little brighter, and a lot more accurate.