BREAKING: 2026 Four-Star QB Jaden O’Neal Commits to Oklahoma Sooners, Rejecting Offers from Alabama, Georgia, and USC
In a major recruiting win for Brent Venables and the Oklahoma Sooners, four-star quarterback Jaden O’Neal, one of the top signal-callers in the 2026 class, has officially announced his commitment to Oklahoma. The highly coveted prospect chose the Sooners over powerhouse programs Alabama, Georgia, and USC, making his decision public on Saturday via social media.
O’Neal, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound quarterback from Long Beach, California, has been a priority target for several national contenders. His arm strength, pocket awareness, and ability to extend plays have drawn comparisons to some of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football. According to recruiting analysts, O’Neal ranks among the top 10 quarterbacks nationally in the 2026 class and is viewed as a potential program-changing talent.
“I felt like Oklahoma was the best fit for me,” O’Neal said during his commitment announcement. “The coaching staff has been real with me from the start. Coach Venables and Coach (offensive coordinator) Seth Littrell showed me how I can grow as both a player and a person there. It just felt like home.”
For Oklahoma, landing O’Neal represents a significant statement on the recruiting trail as the program continues to build momentum heading into its SEC era. Since joining the SEC in 2024, the Sooners have prioritized strengthening their offensive identity, and O’Neal’s commitment provides a cornerstone piece for the future.
Quarterback development has long been a strength in Norman, with a lineage that includes Heisman winners Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Caleb Williams—all of whom became first overall NFL draft picks. That history was a major factor in O’Neal’s decision.
“Oklahoma’s tradition at quarterback is something special,” O’Neal said. “Seeing how they’ve helped guys get to the next level was a big part of my choice. I want to be part of that legacy.”
O’Neal’s dual-threat capabilities and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Oklahoma’s offensive system. His highlight tapes showcase a quarterback who can deliver accurate throws deep downfield while maintaining composure under pressure. He’s also proven to be a leader both on and off the field, guiding his high school team to consecutive playoff appearances and earning MVP honors in multiple camps.
Recruiting analysts praised the Sooners’ staff for staying consistent throughout the process, especially amid heavy pursuit from national powerhouses. Alabama, Georgia, and USC all made strong pushes, but Oklahoma’s persistence and family-oriented approach ultimately sealed the deal.
With O’Neal’s commitment, Oklahoma continues to stack elite talent in its 2026 recruiting class, positioning itself for long-term success in the SEC. He becomes the highest-rated offensive commit in the class so far and is expected to serve as the face of the Sooners’ future.
“Jaden O’Neal’s commitment shows that elite quarterbacks still view Oklahoma as one of the premier destinations for development and success,” one recruiting expert noted. “This is a major win for the Sooners.”
For the Oklahoma faithful, Saturday’s news is yet another reminder that the program’s future remains bright—and that the next great Sooner quarterback may have just foun
d his home in Norman.
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