In a major college football coaching development announced on January 15, 2026, NFL legend and former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten has officially accepted the position as tight ends coach for the University of Oklahoma Sooners.
Breaking: Jason Witten Accepts Tight Ends Coaching Job at Oklahoma Sooners – Fans React with Excitement and Hype
The University of Oklahoma made the hire public Thursday, reuniting Witten with former Cowboys teammate DeMarco Murray (running backs coach) on head coach Brent Venables’ staff. This marks Witten’s first collegiate coaching role after five successful seasons as head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, where he led the team to back-to-back state championships in 2023 and 2024, plus a title game appearance in 2025.
Witten, a 17-year NFL veteran, 11-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro, and 2026 Hall of Fame finalist, brings immense credibility to Norman. His NFL stats: 1,228 receptions, 13,046 yards, and 74 touchdowns—ranking him among the all-time great tight ends. He replaces Joe Jon Finley, who was let go earlier this month after the Sooners’ tight end production lagged despite a 10-3 season and College Football Playoff appearance in 2025.
OU head coach Brent Venables praised Witten’s character and impact:
“When you talk about Jason Witten, you start with the impeccable human being he is. That’s as a competitor, a leader, a coach, a dad, a husband… He brings so much to the table in terms of coaching, mentoring and leading.”
Witten expressed enthusiasm in the official release:
“I love football and I love teaching the game, and Oklahoma is as prestigious a college football program as there is in the country. So I’m thankful to Coach Venables for the opportunity… I know what the expectations and standards of Oklahoma football are and I’m excited to lean into and embrace those.”
Fan Reactions Pour In: Excitement, Recruiting Boost, and Hall of Fame Buzz
The hire generated immediate buzz on social media and sports forums, with fans highlighting Witten’s NFL pedigree, high school success, and potential recruiting edge—especially for his son, 2027 five-star linebacker Cooper Witten, a top prospect heavily courted by OU.
- Recruiting Hype: Many pointed to Cooper potentially committing to the Sooners now that his dad is on staff. One fan tweeted: “Jason Witten to OU as TE coach? Cooper Witten commit incoming. Massive W for Venables! #BoomerSooner”
- Cowboys & NFL Fans: Dallas supporters celebrated the “Cowboys Mafia” connection. “Legend Jason Witten coaching college? OU just got a steal. Can’t wait to see what he does with those tight ends! #GoCowboys”
- Oklahoma Pride: Sooners fans praised the fit: “Brent Venables landing Witten is huge. NFL legend teaching our TEs? We’re reloading for championships. #OklahomaFootball”
- High School Legacy: Liberty Christian alumni and Texas fans noted his turnaround: “From 2-8 to back-to-back champs at Liberty Christian—Witten knows how to build winners. Perfect for OU!”
- Hall of Fame Tie-In: With Witten a 2026 HOF finalist, reactions included: “Hiring a future Hall of Famer as position coach? That’s elite. Congrats to the Sooners!”
Some lighthearted takes emerged: “Witten going from MNF booth to college sideline—love the full-circle moment!” and concerns about adjusting to college level, though most were overwhelmingly positive.
The move strengthens OU’s staff after a strong 2025 (10-3, CFP berth) and positions them well in the SEC recruiting battles. Witten’s presence could elevate tight end development, especially with players like Jaren Kanak and transfer Rocky Beers already contributing.
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