© NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK
Former four-star linebacker Jaren Kanak is making the offseason move to tight end ahead of his final season in Norman. He was asked about that switch with spring practice gearing up.
He’s hoping to make an immediate impact on offense with the Sooners this fall. He’s been doing his best to get ready for his new role.
Oklahoma officially announced the move last week. Kanak expanded on the transition when speaking to the media on Monday.
“The thing about me is I never want to look back and have regret that I didn’t put all my cards and do all that I could. Having that struggle at defense. Not finding that niche, not finding that spot, never really clicked.”
-Jaren Kanak
Kanak spent three years on the OU defense. He tallied more than 100 tackles, landing a starting spot for much of his sophomore season. He took a step back on the depth chart last year, and didn’t see a chance to move up in 2025.
With the writing on the wall, he chose to make a shift. Interestingly enough, this won’t be his first time playing on the offensive side of the ball. In fact, he might enjoy it more than defense.
“I’ve been an offensive guy my whole life. Getting this opportunity now to do that again, catch balls and have fun and block and all that stuff. It’s a great opportunity.”
-Jaren Kanak
While the pass catching might come naturally, it’s still something he needs to work at after spending his college career at linebacker. It’s safe to say he’s been putting in the work.
Jaren Kanak dropped an all-time line about his new role.
When asked about how he was getting ready, he responded, “I’ve been on those jugs like a baby on milk.” Jug machines are obviously playing a major part in his preparations. That will surely be appreciated by his new quarterback.
John Mateer will be the man suiting up for the Sooners this season after transferring from Washington State. He landed quite the payday in doing so. At last look, his NIL valuation on On3 Sports comes in at $2.7 million. It was more than the Cougars could spend to keep him.
Mateer had options as one of the top passers on the transfer market. He chose Oklahoma, in part, because of a phone call from Baker Mayfield. As it turns out, the two bear a resemblance to one another.
Mateer will hope to play to the level of the Heisman winner on the field this season. Former defender turned pass catcher Jaren Kanak might just help.