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2h ago

Oklahoma Expected to Dismiss Tight Ends Coach Joe Jon Finley After CFP Exit

Reports signal an accelerated search for a new position coach with the transfer portal now open.

NORMAN, OK - OCTOBER 15: Head coach Brent Venables and running backs coach L'Damian Washington listen as tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley calls a play for quarterback Dillon Gabriel #8 of the Oklahoma Sooners against the Kansas Jayhawks in the final minute at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on October 15, 2022 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma won 52-42. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
Nov 30, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables looks on against the LSU Tigers during the fourth quarter at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Multiple outlets, citing SoonerScoop/On3 and 247Sports, report Brent Venables is expected to part with tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley, which would be the first major staff change after the 2025 season.
  • Finley has been on staff since 2021 and served as co-offensive coordinator and late-season play-caller in 2024 before returning to the tight ends role in 2025.
  • Development and recruiting at tight end drew sustained scrutiny, with high school signees under Finley combining for nine receptions, 84 yards and two touchdowns over five seasons.
  • The search is underway with reported candidates including Jason Witten, Brian Lepak and offensive analyst Kevin Wilson, with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle expected to have input.
  • Oklahoma is prioritizing the hire and immediate roster additions at tight end with the NCAA transfer portal window open from Jan. 2 to Jan. 16.