GOOD NEWS: Brent Venables Extends Contract Until 2034 Before Retiring as Coach…
In a landmark moment for Oklahoma football, head coach Brent Venables has officially signed a contract extension that will keep him in Norman through the 2034 season. The announcement comes as a massive vote of confidence in Venables’ leadership, vision, and the steady progress he’s brought to the Sooners since taking over the reins. With this extension, Venables also confirmed that 2034 will likely mark the end of his legendary coaching career, capping off what promises to be a storied chapter in college football history.
Venables, a defensive guru with deep ties to the Sooners program, originally returned to Oklahoma in 2021 after a long and successful stint as Clemson’s defensive coordinator. Since taking over as head coach, he has brought a culture of discipline, toughness, and relentless energy, guiding the program through its transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) while remaining competitive on the national stage.
“This place is home,” Venables said during the press conference announcing the extension. “I came here not just to win games, but to build something that lasts. I’m grateful for the trust and support from the university, the fans, and especially our players. I’ve got a lot left to give, and I plan to give it all until the very last snap in 2034.”
The new deal includes financial incentives tied to performance, academic success, and program integrity—elements that reflect Venables’ holistic approach to building a football powerhouse. University officials emphasized that the extension ensures stability during a critical era as Oklahoma continues to navigate the high-stakes landscape of SEC football.
Athletic Director Joe Castiglione praised Venables’ impact, saying, “Brent embodies everything Oklahoma football stands for—excellence, tradition, and heart. His leadership has reenergized this program. With this extension, we’re locking in a decade of stability and vision.”
Under Venables, the Sooners have seen a resurgence in recruiting, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The recent commitment of five-star defensive lineman David Stone and a top-5 national recruiting class are direct results of his efforts. Venables’ emphasis on player development, character, and academics has also earned respect throughout the NCAA coaching fraternity.
The announcement has thrilled Oklahoma fans, who flooded social media with messages of support and celebration. The #VenablesForever hashtag quickly began trending, a clear sign of how deeply he’s connected with the Sooner faithful.
While the 2034 retirement date might seem far off, Venables made it clear that he’s already thinking about succession planning and leaving the program in capable hands. “When the time comes, I want to walk away knowing the next coach inherits a program that’s even stronger than how I found it,” he said.
In a sport where coaching tenures are often short-lived, Venables’ long-term commitment is a rarity—and a gift to Oklahoma football. With his future now secured, the focus shifts fully to bringing another national title to Norman. And with Brent Venables at the helm for another decade, the path to greatness has never looked clearer.
Be the first to comment