Eric Morris’ first junior day at Oklahoma State ignites recruiting buzz, drawing four-star prospects, flip targets, and in-state talents to Stillwater
STILLWATER, Okla. — With the arrival of spring in 2026, Oklahoma State University’s football program is experiencing some excitement under new head coach Eric Morris.
Transitioning from his successful stint at North Texas, Morris has quickly established himself as a dynamic force in recruiting, emphasizing aggressive pursuits in both the transfer portal and high school ranks.
This weekend, OSU hosts its first junior day under Morris’ leadership, an event drawing a handful of four-star prospects, potential flips, and in-state talent that will be eager to explore the Cowboys’ revamped vision.
As reported by On3, this gathering shows Morris’ commitment to rebuilding the program with high-caliber athletes who align with his fast-paced, innovative offensive schemes.
Morris stepped into the role following Mike Gundy’s storied 21-year era, inheriting a team that faced challenges in 2025, including roster turnover and on-field inconsistencies.
However, Morris’ track record, guiding North Texas to competitive heights with explosive offenses, has brought new optimism. In his early months, he’s focused on forging personal connections, as evidenced by the rapid assembly of the 2026 signing class, which included several transfers and flips from his prior commitments.
“We’re building something special here,” Morris has stated, a sentiment echoing through the recruiting trails. On3’s coverage highlights how the staff hit the ground running in January, visiting prospects nationwide to lay the groundwork for events like this junior day.
The junior day, set for Saturday, serves as an informal yet crucial introduction for class of 2027 juniors. Attendees will tour the upgraded facilities at Boone Pickens Stadium, observe spring practices, and engage with coaches in a low-pressure environment.
According to On3, the event features a lineup of four-star targets, starting with running back Javian Jones-Priest, who shares a strong North Texas connection with Morris and his staff.
Jones-Priest, planning a visit on April 18 for a spring practice, expressed enthusiasm: “They were recruiting me when they were at North Texas. I feel like I can fit in at Oklahoma State, especially since my speed can go well with their offensive scheme!”
Linebacker Izzy Hammons, another priority four-star, is an early frontrunner for OSU. Hammons told On3, “What’s making Oklahoma State a contender is that they’re in my home state and I like their staff.” He plans to visit in person soon, citing head coach Cody Crill and the program’s rising trajectory.
Four-star cornerback Alex Patton from Cibolo, Texas, will also be in town, adding depth to the defensive backfield pursuits. In-state standout Daniel Yebit, a four-star cornerback, has the Cowboys in his lead group, praising the communication from OSU’s WR and DB coaches.
“They communicate very well, especially because their WR coaches and DB coaches are both recruiting me,” Yebit shared with On3. “I’ve already talked to Coach Morris and the way he represents himself gave authority. I liked that a lot.”
Flip targets add an extra layer of intrigue for the Cowboys. Vanderbilt wide receiver commit Jeremiah Douglas, a pass-catcher from Crandall, Texas, is expected in Stillwater. Despite his commitment to the Commodores, OSU extended an offer earlier this offseason, and Douglas has official visits lined up with SEC contenders.
On3 notes the Cowboys’ persistence, which has quickly garnered his attention amid chipping from programs like Texas, LSU, and Ole Miss.
In-state recruiting remains a cornerstone, with Morris prioritizing Oklahoma talent to build local ties.
Offensive tackle Odaeofe Oruru from Jenks High School leads the pack, listing OSU among his top contenders. “I like the new staff, especially Coach (Cody) Crill. He has a good coaching style and he’s a good human,” Oruru told On3. “Coach Morris gives the impression that he will be your biggest supporter, but on the field, he’s going to coach you hard and make sure you’re on the right track.”
Another excellent OT prospect, 6-foot-8, 280-pound Caleb Siler from Gunter, Texas, is set to visit, drawn by connections to coaches Andrew Lee and FBS offers. Siler enthused to On3, “One of things have lined up with Oklahoma State. Coach Andrew Lee gave me my first FBS offer when he was at Tulsa, and now he’s at Oklahoma State as well. Those connections stand out.”
Additional in-state gems include North EDGE Cadriann Olds from Edmond, tight end Braxton Daniel from Jenkins, and defensive backs Bryson Brown and Noah Gillespie from Broken Arrow.
Brown, a high-priority target, highlighted Morris’ rapid ascent: “Coach Morris and his staff have definitely made sure that I know I’m a high priority and want me to stay at home.” Gillespie echoed the sentiment, noting family ties and the program’s appeal: “Being close to home, my family could come see me play, so that makes them a strong contender.”
This junior day could be a game-changer for OSU’s recruiting class of 2027, potentially securing early commitments and flipping others.
With Morris’ emphasis on relationships and scheme fit, the event positions the Cowboys to attract athletes who can elevate the program back to contention.
As On3 analyst Sam Spiegelman points out, the staff’s energy is palpable, turning Stillwater into a hotbed for top prospects. If successful, this weekend might mark the beginning of a new modern recruiting approach.