In his year with the Sooners, he gained valuable insight into areas for improvement, from strength training and technique to balancing life on and off the field.
Year 2 is set to showcase a new and improved David Stone.
As a five-star defensive lineman and the cornerstone of Oklahoma’s 2024 recruiting class, Stone entered the program with high expectations. His first year with the Sooners was a learning experience, helping him refine his technique, build strength, and balance life on and off the field.
“I had a big issue with letting my life outside of football affect my performance,” Stone admitted. “I dominated in team settings, but outside of that, my body language would slip due to things like grades or personal issues. I had to learn to separate football from everything else and handle the pressures better. Now, I feel like I’ve grown, both in life and on the field.”
Reflecting on his freshman season, Stone thought about the advice he would give his younger self.
“Life is going to be difficult,” he said. “There are a lot of pressures that come with being who I am. Instead of letting them hold me back, I’ve learned to use them as motivation. I wish I had done that sooner. Conversations with Coach Bates really helped me grow as a player.”
Stone played in all 13 games last season, contributing at defensive tackle and on special teams, recording six tackles, including a sack and two tackles for loss. He was one of only two true freshmen to appear in every game for the Sooners’ defense. Heading into Year 2, he’s expected to take on a more prominent role, and his physical transformation has been key to that.
When he arrived as a freshman, Stone weighed 275 pounds. This spring, he’s up to 313 pounds—a nearly 50-pound increase. Despite the added weight, he remains agile and explosive.
“I was never really a weight room guy,” Stone admitted. “But I love working hard. This year, Schmitty (strength coach Jerry Schmidt) pushed me every day, and my maxes went up a plate or two. The extra weight has helped me hold blocks better while still rushing the passer at an elite level.”
Off the field, Stone has also made strides. In February, he was named to the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll, a testament to his growth. His development hasn’t gone unnoticed by his teammates.
“He’s definitely more confident,” defensive end PJ Adebawore said. “He’s gotten bigger, stronger, and his work ethic has really stood out. You can see his determination to improve in every aspect.”
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