Fueled by advice from family and NFL-bound veterans, the defensive anchor rejects the draft to pursue championship glory and solidify his legacy as the backbone of Norman
In a video shared by Oklahoma, Lewis explained the factors that led him to return to Norman for another season."I talked to a lot of people," Lewis said.
"Mostly, my family and then my dad. He was just giving me key points that he felt like I should have come back... Mostly talked to a couple of my teammates like John (Mateer) and Isaiah (Sategna), getting their thoughts on what their plan was. I asked Danny (Stutsman) for advice. Talked to him for a little bit. Advice from Danny really stood out to me."
That’s the kind of thoughtful process you want to see from a player making a big decision. Lewis didn’t just jump at the first opportunity or chase the money. He talked to the people who know him best and care about his future.
His dad giving him key points makes sense. Family advice is usually grounded in what’s best long-term.
Teammates like Mateer and Sategna sharing their plans probably helped him see the big picture for the program. And hearing from Danny Stutsman, who’s now in the NFL, gave him that veteran perspective on what it takes to make the jump.
Lewis had a strong 2025 season with 76 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks. He’s a guy who shows up every week and makes plays. But it’s not just the stats — it’s the way he plays with that edge and brings everyone along with him.
Brian Bosworth had some strong words about Lewis back in January during an interview with KREF. The Boz called him the "backbone of the defense," highlighting his leadership and energy.
The Sooners have a really good defense returning in 2026, and Lewis is one of the main reasons why. He’s a guy who can rally the troops, make plays, and set the tone. Having a linebacker like that who brings that raw energy every Saturday is huge.
Lewis isn’t just talking about energy — he’s showing it on the field. Last year he was all over the place making tackles, disrupting plays, and leading by example. If he can build on that and continue being that emotional leader, this defense could be one of the best in the country again.
The Sooners have talent all over the field. With John Mateer at quarterback and a loaded group of skill players on offense, they have the pieces to compete. But having a defense that plays with that kind of synergy and leadership from guys like Lewis is what separates good teams from great ones.
This feels like a big year for Kip Lewis. He’s entering his fifth year in the program and has a chance to be one of the best linebackers in the country.
If he keeps bringing that raw, genuine energy and helps the younger guys develop, Oklahoma’s defense is going to be fun to watch.
Having a guy like Kip Lewis leading the defense with that kind of fire is going to help a lot.
