Comparing the program's rise to "Turning the Titanic," Brian Bosworth hopes Kip Lewis returns, calling him an NFL-ready leader with more to gain in college
In a recent interview with KREF Sports Radio, legendary Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Brian Bosworth expressed his strong desire for current OU standout Kip Lewis to forego the 2026 NFL Draft and return for another year in Norman.
Bosworth, a two-time Butkus Award winner and College Football Hall of Famer, didn't hold back in praising the junior linebacker, emphasizing how staying could benefit both Lewis's development and the team's future.
Bosworth, affectionately known as "The Boz," is no stranger to the pressures of transitioning from college to the pros.
During his own storied career at Oklahoma from 1984-1986, he amassed 395 tackles, earned unanimous All-American honors twice, and was selected first overall in the 1987 NFL Supplemental Draft by the Seattle Seahawks.
His NFL tenure was cut short by injuries after three seasons, but his impact on OU football remains iconic.
Now, as a vocal supporter of the program, Bosworth sees echoes of his own intensity in Lewis."I'm a big fan of Kip—the way he plays the game, approaches the game, the way he lives the game," Bosworth said. He described Lewis as the "backbone of the defense," highlighting his leadership and energy that have been pivotal for the Sooners.
Lewis, a redshirt junior from Carthage, Texas, has indeed emerged as a defensive force. In the 2025 season, he played in all 13 games, starting 13, and led the team with 76 total tackles (38 solo, 38 assisted). He added 4.0 sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and four pass deflections, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability.
His performance helped propel Oklahoma to a 10-3 record, including a berth in the College Football Playoff First Round, where they fell 34-24 to Alabama.
Despite Lewis's impressive stats, Bosworth believes the 6-foot-1, 227-pound linebacker has more to gain by staying.
"He's an NFL player and can find a home, but I hope he looks at his situation and says, 'I can get better in college, and it will improve my stock value at the next level,'" Bosworth explained.
He stressed the value of another season under head coach Brent Venables, noting, "Another year under Brent Venables is not going to hurt him; it’s only going to help him."
Bosworth drew a vivid analogy to underscore his point, comparing the Sooners' trajectory to "turning the Titanic in the right direction."
He suggested Lewis has "unfinished business" in Norman, particularly after a season that showed promise but ended short of a national title.
With Oklahoma transitioning deeper into the SEC era under Venables, who has built a reputation for developing elite defenses, Bosworth sees Lewis as a key figure in mentoring the next wave of talent.
"With his energy and his leadership, he could do some great things for not only the guys that are playing and are gonna be on the field immediately for next year, but also for those guys that are waiting in the wings," Bosworth added. He positioned Lewis as an ideal example for younger players, saying, "Kip can be a great example for young players because Kip knows how to do it."
This sentiment aligns with Lewis's growth since arriving as a four-star recruit in the 2022 class. After redshirting his freshman year and contributing as a backup in 2023 (66 tackles) and 2024 (65 tackles, two interceptions returned for touchdowns), Lewis broke out in 2025, earning spots on preseason watch lists like the Butkus Award and Bronko Nagurski Trophy.
However, Lewis's draft stock remains uncertain. ESPN Senior NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. currently does not list him on his Big Board for the 2026 class.
This absence could motivate Lewis to return and elevate his profile, potentially climbing into early-round consideration with another strong campaign.
Oklahoma's defense, which ranked in the top 20 nationally in points allowed in 2025, could benefit immensely from his return, especially with departures expected elsewhere on the roster.
Bosworth wrapped up his comments with a direct plea: "So I would like to see No. 10 back in a Sooner uniform next year."
For Sooners fans, that vision represents continuity and championship aspirations. As the offseason unfolds, Lewis faces a pivotal decision: chase the NFL dream now or solidify his legacy in crimson and cream.
If Bosworth's words resonate, Norman might see its defensive anchor return for one more run at glory.