News Summary
The University of Oklahoma has appointed former NFL star Jason Witten as the tight ends coach. Transitioning from a decorated 17-year NFL career, Witten brings coaching experience from Liberty Christian School, where he achieved back-to-back state championships. His hiring follows the release of former tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley. Witten’s expertise aims to enhance player development in the tight ends unit and foster a culture of leadership within the Oklahoma football program.
Oklahoma city, OK – The University of Oklahoma has made a significant addition to its football coaching staff with the appointment of former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten as the new tight ends coach. This marks Witten’s first foray into collegiate coaching after an illustrious 17-year career in the NFL, primarily with the Cowboys, where he established himself as a key player in franchise history.
Witten, who is 43 years old, holds the record for the most receptions (1,215) and receiving yards (12,977) in Cowboys’ history and ranks second for receiving touchdowns with 72. An 11-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time first-team All-Pro, Witten’s distinguished career reflects both athletic prowess and leadership on and off the field. His most recent accolade includes being honored with the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award in 2012. Witten’s hiring is expected to bolster the development of the Sooners’ tight ends and contribute positively to the team’s offensive strategies.
Transitioning to coaching after his retirement in 2020, Witten served as the head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas. During his tenure, he led the team to remarkable success, securing back-to-back state championships in 2023 and 2024. This experience equips him with the skills needed to mentor the young athletes at the University of Oklahoma and guide them in their football careers.
Coaching Transition
Witten’s hiring signifies a fresh chapter for the University of Oklahoma’s tight end unit, following the release of former tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley, who held the position for five seasons. His appointment also reunites him with Oklahoma’s running backs coach, DeMarco Murray, a former Cowboys teammate, enhancing the synergy within the coaching staff.
Profiles of Success
Under Jason Witten’s guidance, Liberty Christian School flourished, a testament to his coaching capabilities. The success of the program during his leadership has drawn significant attention, potentially increasing recruitment interest among prospective players. Witten’s construction of a winning culture reflects his dedication to excellence and personal responsibility, qualities that resonate within the Oklahoma athletic community.
Impact on the Oklahoma Football Program
The addition of Witten is anticipated to revitalize the tight ends position, providing players with insights from his extensive experience in the NFL. His track record will be invaluable in enhancing player development and strengthening the overall cohesion of the offensive unit. Witten’s understanding of the professional game is expected to lend substantial weight to the strategic direction of the Sooners’ offensive gameplay.
Future Aspirations
As the Sooners enter the next season, the integration of Jason Witten into the coaching staff presents an exciting opportunity for the team and its players. The expectations from Witten’s experience are high, and his influence is likely to extend beyond just the tight ends, fostering a culture of discipline, leadership, and community involvement within the Oklahoma football program and its broader outreach.
Conclusion
The University of Oklahoma’s decision to bring Jason Witten in as tight ends coach is a strategic move that combines his wealth of NFL experience with a focus on developing young talent. This new chapter for the Sooners signals a commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in collegiate football while fostering the next generation of leaders on and off the field. As the seasons progress, the Oklahoma community can look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this innovative coaching choice.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coaching Role | Jason Witten appointed as tight ends coach at the University of Oklahoma |
| Previous Coaching Experience | Head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, leading to back-to-back state championships in 2023 and 2024 |
| NFL Career Highlights | 17 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders; 11-time Pro Bowl selection; 2-time first-team All-Pro; 1,215 receptions; 12,977 receiving yards; 72 touchdowns |
| Connection with DeMarco Murray | Reunites with former Cowboys teammate, DeMarco Murray, who serves as Oklahoma’s running backs coach |
| Replacement | Replaces Joe Jon Finley, who was released earlier this month after five seasons as tight ends coach |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Jason Witten?
Jason Witten is a former professional football player who played 17 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Dallas Cowboys. He is the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards and was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection.
What is Witten’s coaching experience?
After retiring from the NFL in 2020, Witten became the head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, leading the team to back-to-back state championships in 2023 and 2024.
Why did Witten leave Liberty Christian School?
Witten accepted the position of tight ends coach at the University of Oklahoma, marking his first collegiate coaching role.
Who did Witten replace at Oklahoma?
Witten replaced Joe Jon Finley, who was released earlier this month after serving as the tight ends coach for five seasons.
Is Witten’s son, Cooper, joining Oklahoma?
As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding Cooper Witten’s plans to join the University of Oklahoma. He remains a standout player at Liberty Christian School, currently ranked as the nation’s No. 1 linebacker prospect for the Class of 2027.
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