Breaking News!! R. Mason Thomas Opens Up on Decision to Enter Transfer Portal, Reflects on Time at Oklahoma
Breaking News!! R. Mason Thomas Opens Up on Decision to Enter Transfer Portal, Reflects on Time at Oklahoma
Breaking News!! R. Mason Thomas Opens Up on Decision to Enter Transfer Portal, Reflects on Time at Oklahoma
June 9, 2025 | Norman, OK — In a move that stirred discussions across college football circles, Oklahoma Sooners edge rusher R. Mason Thomas has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking the end of a chapter in Norman that began with high hopes and flashes of brilliance. Now, for the first time since the announcement, Thomas has spoken at length about the reasons behind his decision and what lies ahead in the next phase of his college football journey.
A Promising Start in Norman
R. Mason Thomas arrived at the University of Oklahoma as a highly touted prospect from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A former four-star recruit, he was known for his explosive first step, raw athleticism, and tenacity off the edge. During his freshman and sophomore seasons, Thomas saw rotational snaps, recording a total of 31 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks — stats that showcased his potential, even if he never fully broke into a starting role.
However, as the Sooners underwent transitions on and off the field — including staff changes, defensive scheme tweaks, and fluctuating depth charts — Thomas found himself facing an uncertain path forward.
Thomas Breaks His Silence
In an exclusive interview with reporters Monday afternoon, Thomas gave a candid and heartfelt explanation for his decision to enter the portal.
> “This wasn’t something I took lightly,” Thomas began. “Oklahoma is a special place. I grew a lot here — as a player and as a person. I’m forever grateful for the coaches, my teammates, and the fans. But at this point in my career, I need to find a situation that puts me in the best position to contribute consistently and continue developing as a pass rusher.”
He pointed to a combination of factors that led to the decision, chief among them being playing time and his fit within the current defensive scheme.
> “The staff had a plan, and I respect that. But sometimes, you can feel that your role isn’t going to expand the way you hoped, especially with the talent coming in and how the system has evolved,” Thomas explained. “I want to be somewhere I can make an impact every down — not just as a situational guy.”
The Role of Coaching and Player Development
Thomas was quick to clarify that his decision should not be seen as a critique of the coaching staff, including head coach Brent Venables and defensive coordinator Ted Roof.
> “Coach V and Coach Roof have been great to me. They’ve always been honest, and that’s all you can ask for,” he said. “But as a competitor, you have to make the call that’s best for your own growth. I want to be in a system that uses my skill set more aggressively — let me pin my ears back and go get the quarterback.”
He also acknowledged that the emergence of younger players at his position — including rising stars from the last two recruiting classes — played a role in prompting deeper reflection on his future.
Navigating the Transfer Portal Era
Thomas is one of several Oklahoma players to test the waters of the transfer portal in the last year, reflecting a broader trend across the college football landscape as athletes seek immediate opportunities and flexibility.
> “The portal gives us freedom, but it also comes with a lot of noise and pressure,” he said. “I’m just trying to block all that out and focus on finding the right fit — not just for football, but academically and personally too.”
Although he declined to name specific programs he is considering, sources close to the situation indicate that several Power Five schools — particularly in the ACC and Big Ten — have already reached out to express interest.
What’s Next for R. Mason Thomas?
As Thomas weighs his next move, he’s maintaining his offseason training regimen and staying close to his family in Florida. While he’s looking for the right opportunity, he emphasized that education and a strong team culture remain priorities.
> “I want to win, of course. But I also want to be somewhere that builds young men off the field,” he said. “That’s something I appreciated about Oklahoma — and it’s something I’ll keep looking for.”
He also left the door open for a potential return to the Sooners, depending on how things shake out in the coming weeks.
> “You never say never. I still have love for OU,” he said. “If things change and there’s an opportunity to come back into a bigger role, who knows? But for now, I’m exploring my options.”
Reaction from the OU Community
The news of Thomas entering the portal has sparked a range of reactions from fans and analysts. While some express disappointment, many have voiced support and understanding.
OU defensive line coach Miguel Chavis posted a brief message on social media after the announcement: “Proud of RM. Talented young man with a bright future. Wherever he lands, they’re getting a baller.”
Final Thoughts
R. Mason Thomas’s departure underscores the complexities and nuances of the modern college football experience. As players balance loyalty, development, and career goals, the transfer portal has become an indispensable — if emotionally charged — part of the sport.
For Thomas, the decision to leave Oklahoma was not made in haste but born of a desire to fulfill the promise that made him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in his class. Wherever he lands next, all eyes will be on the talented edge rusher as he looks to make the most of a fresh start.
