The 2024 prospects for the Sooners’ defensive line receive a significant boost as Da’Jon Terry makes a comeback.
Despite a tumultuous week for the Oklahoma Sooners, they received positive news on Thursday regarding the status of some key players from the 2023 season. The Sooners have been anxiously awaiting decisions on whether their crucial contributors will return or depart for other opportunities.
While a few players are yet to announce their decisions, one significant piece, both figuratively and literally, made his intentions clear on Thursday. Da’Jon Terry took to social media to declare that he will be continuing with the Sooners in 2024.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 321 pounds, Terry, the defensive tackle, played a crucial role as one of the best defensive linemen for the Sooners in the 2023 season. Known for his presence in the middle of the defense during pivotal goal-line stands, including the one in the Red River Rivalry, Terry’s impact goes beyond his stat line.
While his numbers, including 17 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack, may not be astounding, the nature of his position, much like that of a standout like Aaron Donald, often doesn’t yield remarkable statistics. His primary function lies in clogging up the middle and holding blocks to enable linebackers to make impactful plays, a role he consistently fulfilled throughout the season.
With the move to the SEC looming, the significance of a player of Terry’s size and skill becomes even more apparent. Oklahoma is actively seeking similar players through the transfer portal to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. Given the departures of Isaiah Coe and Jordan Kelley, Terry’s decision to return is crucial for the Sooners, as it means they would only lose two key players at the defensive tackle position heading into the 2024 season.
