Eastern Kentucky offensive lineman Fred Hinton is the latest addition to the Oklahoma Sooners from the transfer portal
The Oklahoma Sooners have secured the commitment of Eastern Kentucky offensive lineman Fred Hinton through the NCAA transfer portal. This addition comes as part of head coach Brent Venables' efforts to rebuild depth and competition along the line following the 2025 season.
Hinton, a promising young tackle, announced his decision to join OU, bringing valuable experience and potential to a unit in need of reinforcement. Hinton's journey to Norman begins in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he starred as a three-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 305 pounds, he possessed the size and athleticism that caught the eye of several programs. Initially committing to Eastern Kentucky, an FCS school in the United Athletic Conference, Hinton saw limited action as a true freshman in 2024, appearing in just five games. However, he broke out in 2025, starting six contests for the Colonels.
In a matchup against the ACC's Louisville Cardinals, on 25 pass-blocking snaps, he allowed three pressures and one sack according to Pro Football Focus metrics.
This experience against Power Four talent suggests there is potential for him to adapt quickly to the rigors of SEC play. At Eastern Kentucky, Hinton primarily lined up at right tackle, showcasing solid technique in both pass protection and run blocking.
His film highlights quick feet and a strong anchor, attributes that align well with Oklahoma's offensive scheme under coordinator Ben Arbuckle. With two years of eligibility remaining, Hinton represents not just immediate depth but also long-term investment for the Sooners.
Ranked as the No. 2085 overall prospect in the 247Sports transfer portal rankings and the No. 167 offensive tackle available, he's viewed as a high-upside addition rather than a plug-and-play starter.
Oklahoma's pursuit of Hinton underscores the program's aggressive approach in the transfer portal this offseason. The Sooners' offensive line struggled with injuries and inconsistencies in 2025, with the biggest issue being the lack of run game for much of their 10-3 season.
Veteran coach Bill Bedenbaugh, renowned for developing elite linemen, lost key depth pieces, creating vacancies that needed filling. Hinton becomes the fourth offensive lineman acquired via the portal in this cycle, joining former Arkansas guard E'Marion Harris, ex-BYU tackle Caleb Nitta, and Peyton Joseph from Louisiana-Monroe.
This quartet addresses multiple positions, with Harris and Nitta bringing interior versatility, while Hinton and Joseph add tackle options. The influx of talent could elevate the unit's performance, providing better protection for quarterback John Mateer and opening lanes for a revamped running back room.
Beyond the on-field impact, Hinton's addition reflects broader trends in college football. The transfer portal has democratized talent distribution, allowing players from smaller programs like Eastern Kentucky to leap to powerhouse conferences.
For Hinton, this move offers exposure in the SEC, where Oklahoma continues its transition after joining from the Big 12. The Sooners' 2025 campaign exposed vulnerabilities up front, as they ranked 78th nationally in sacks allowed and 92nd in rushing yards per game.
Reinforcing the line is crucial for Venables' vision of a physical, balanced offense capable of competing with juggernauts like Georgia and Texas.
Hinton expressed excitement on social media, posting a graphic of himself in crimson and cream with the caption "Boomer Sooner!" This sentiment echoes the optimism surrounding the program as it prepares for spring practices.
Looking ahead, Hinton's integration will be key. He'll compete for snaps in a crowded but unproven group, potentially earning a rotational role early. If he develops under Bedenbaugh's tutelage—known for producing NFL talents like Creed Humphrey and Anton Harrison—Hinton could become a cornerstone.
For Oklahoma, this portal haul signals growth, positioning the Sooners for a stronger showing in 2026. As the team eyes a return to playoff contention, additions like Hinton are pivotal in bridging the gap.
With Hinton on board, the Sooners' offensive line takes a step toward stability and dominance, setting the stage for what could be an impactful season in Norman.