Sategna, Stone, Lewis, Wein: Sooners' Returning Stars Shine in on3's Early 2026 Top 100
Oklahoma Sooners football fans have plenty of reasons for optimism heading into the 2026 season, and on3's way-too-early Top 100 college football players ranking underscores the talent returning to Norman.
The outlet recently released its initial Impact Rankings for 2026, highlighting four standout OU players among the nation's elite: defensive tackle David Stone at No. 20, linebacker Kip Lewis at No. 47, defensive end Taylor Wein at No. 58, and wide receiver Isaiah Sategna at No. 62.
This quartet represents a strong core for Brent Venables' squad, particularly on defense, where the Sooners have built a reputation for toughness and disruption.
Notably absent from the list are safety Peyton Bowen, cornerback Eli Bowen, and quarterback John Mateer—key contributors who are expected to return but didn't crack on3's top 100 at this stage. Their exclusion doesn't diminish their importance; early rankings like these often evolve as performances unfold, and all three played pivotal roles in OU's recent campaigns.
Leading the Sooners' representation is David Stone, ranked No. 20 overall. Clark Brooks of ON3 praised the interior lineman effusively: "Living up to his namesake, former Five-Star Plus+ David Stone was one of college football’s most hard-nosed defenders last fall. His nine tackles for a loss were the most at the position. And his 9.7 percent Impact Rate was the 12th-best among Power 4 interior linemen. Moreover, Stone is just one of two returning college football players to rock a plus-81.0 PFF run defense grade."
Stone's dominance in the trenches stems from his relentless motor and technical prowess. As a disruptive force on the interior defensive line, he consistently penetrated backfields, stuffing runs and collapsing pockets. His elite run-defense metrics from Pro Football Focus highlight why he's viewed as one of the most reliable anchors in the country.
With OU's defense ranking among the nation's best in recent years, Stone's return provides a foundation for continued excellence against the run, especially in the physical SEC.
At No. 47, Kip Lewis brings leadership and production to the linebacker corps. As a tackling machine and playmaker in the middle, Lewis led OU in tackles during the prior season and added splash plays like tackles for loss and sacks. His instincts, coverage ability, and physicality make him a perfect fit for Venables' aggressive scheme.
Lewis' decision to return for another year—bypassing early NFL Draft entry—bolsters a unit that could be even more formidable with added experience.
Taylor Wein, slotted at No. 58, emerges as a rising star on the edge. The defensive end's length, burst, and pass-rush upside make him a nightmare for offensive tackles. Wein's development has been steady, and his inclusion in the top 100 reflects growing recognition of his potential as a high-impact defender.
Paired with Stone inside, Wein adds versatility to a front seven that thrives on pressure and disruption.
Rounding out the group is Isaiah Sategna at No. 62. The dynamic wide receiver led OU in receptions, yards, and touchdowns in the previous season, showcasing explosive playmaking ability. His speed, route-running, and big-play threat give the offense a reliable weapon, especially as the Sooners aim to improve consistency on that side of the ball.
Sategna's return, alongside quarterback John Mateer's experience, sets up an intriguing aerial attack.
These rankings arrive amid a wave of way-too-early 2026 previews, where outlets like ESPN, USA Today, and others place OU in the top 10-15 nationally based on returning talent and portal additions.
Despite portal departures and the need for depth, the presence of four top-100 players—three on defense—signals strength in the trenches and skill positions.
As the offseason progresses, these Sooners will look to build on recent momentum. Stone's interior dominance, Lewis' tackling prowess, Wein's edge rush, and Sategna's explosiveness form a talented nucleus capable of pushing OU toward another strong SEC campaign and potential playoff contention.
While omissions like the Bowens and Mateer leave room for debate, on3's list affirms that Oklahoma boasts some of the brightest returning stars in college football for 2026.