Crimson Countdown: No. 32 R Mason Thomas
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No. 32 R Mason Thomas
2022 stats: 7 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, .5 sack.
2023 outlook: R Mason Thomas enters his second year at Oklahoma with high expectations. The sophomore played more than most probably anticipated during his freshman season. But Thomas showed potential on the edge for the Sooners, playing in 10 games.
A four-star prospect out of the state of Florida, Thomas was a late addition to the 2022 class. He was originally committed to Iowa State before flipping to the Sooners. He figures to play a big role this season, after putting on almost 20 pounds since the end of the 2022 season. He’s up to 240 pounds, which is where the coaching staff wants his weight for the season. He will compete for a starting spot along with several newcomers from the portal and freshmen, as well as a couple returning contributors.
2023 defensive end outlook
The Sooners made several additions to the defensive end room following the 2022 season. In the transfer portal, Oklahoma landed Wake Forest’s Rondell Bothroyd and Oklahoma State’s Trace Ford. Both figure to be key contributors. OU has also welcomes true freshman Adepoju Adebawore, who was one of the most sought-after recruits in the country in the 2023 class. Senior Reggie Grimes, junior Ethan Downs and sophomore R Mason Thomas all return as well, giving OU plenty of depth on the edge.
