Oklahoma Football: 3 Breakout Candidates for 2022

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Oklahoma linebacker Clayton Smith tackling a teammate during a spring football game

NORMAN, OK – APRIL 24: Running back Jaden Knowles #25 of the Oklahoma Sooners breaks through the tackle of outside linebacker Clayton Smith #20 of the Sooners to score a touchdown during the team’s spring game at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on April 24, 2021 in Norman, Oklahoma. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) /

Clayton Smith – Edge/Outside Linebacker

With a high-pressure 3-4 to install, Brent Venables is going to need some capable outside linebackers who can both rush the edge and have enough speed to cover slot receivers.

Clayton Smith fits that role perfectly.

Smith was a rarely-used freshman in 2021, but he has all the makings of a star linebacker. Coming out of high school, he played both receiver and edge rusher. He had some NFLesque plays at receiver, but he got his five-star rating because of his talent on defense.

His 6-foot-4, 230-pound frame will only get bigger as time goes on, but he will contribute right away. On the edge, he’s got a plethora of moves to get around hapless tackles or tight ends who try to block him.

In the passing game, he’s got the athleticism to cover slot receivers or tight ends, as well as having great closing speed to break up passes.

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While he’s got far to go in his development, the old staff raved about Clayton Smith. The new staff will do just the same.

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