The Carl Albert Crew: Oklahoma Sees ‘Great Qualities’ in Incoming Trio of Former Titans
NORMAN, Okla. – The pipeline from Carl Albert High School to the University of Oklahoma continues to flourish, and this year, it comes with a special trio of incoming talent. The Sooners have landed three former Titans, and the buzz around Norman suggests this group brings something truly special.
Described as players with “great qualities” by those inside the OU program, this trio—Kevin Sperry, Marcus James, and Trey Washington—represents not just talent but also leadership, discipline, and a winning mentality cultivated at one of Oklahoma’s top high school programs.
Carl Albert’s Winning Mentality Carries Over to Norman
It’s no secret that Carl Albert High School has been a powerhouse in Oklahoma high school football, regularly competing for and winning state championships. That success, combined with the program’s strong emphasis on discipline and fundamentals, has made it a reliable feeder for top college programs—particularly the Sooners.
Head coach Brent Venables has spoken highly of the program’s ability to produce mentally tough and physically prepared players, and this trio fits the mold perfectly.
“These guys come from a winning culture,” Venables said. “They know what it takes to compete at a high level. They bring toughness, discipline, and a team-first mentality—qualities that fit exactly what we want at Oklahoma.”
Meet the Trio: The Former Titans Ready to Make an Impact
Kevin Sperry – The Quarterback of the Future
Among the incoming group, Kevin Sperry is perhaps the most talked-about name. The talented quarterback committed to Oklahoma early and never wavered, embracing the challenge of leading at the next level.
A strong-armed passer with impressive mobility, Sperry led Carl Albert with poise, helping the team maintain its dominance in Oklahoma high school football. His ability to make plays both in and outside the pocket has drawn comparisons to some of OU’s past greats.
“Kevin’s got all the tools,” said Sooners offensive coordinator Seth Littrell. “His arm talent, his decision-making, and his leadership are all qualities that make him a special player. He’s already showing signs of being a natural fit in our system.”
With Dillon Gabriel moving on and Jackson Arnold in line to take over, Sperry will have time to develop. But many believe it won’t be long before he’s making his mark in Norman.
Marcus James – The Defensive Enforcer
On the defensive side of the ball, Marcus James is expected to bring physicality and versatility to the Sooners’ front seven. Standing out as one of Carl Albert’s most dominant defenders, James made a name for himself with his relentless motor and hard-hitting style.
At 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for a Venables-coached defense. Whether lined up as a linebacker or putting his hand in the dirt as an edge rusher, James has the potential to disrupt offenses from multiple positions.
“He’s got that ‘it’ factor on defense,” said OU linebackers coach Ted Roof. “He plays fast, he’s aggressive, and he has a natural feel for the game. Guys like him set the tone for an entire defense.”
Trey Washington – The Playmaker in the Secondary
Rounding out the trio, Trey Washington is a dynamic defensive back with a knack for making big plays. His ability to cover ground quickly, paired with his ball-hawking instincts, made him one of Carl Albert’s most valuable defenders.
Washington’s versatility is one of his strongest attributes. He’s capable of playing at safety, nickel, or even corner, giving the OU coaching staff plenty of options. His intelligence and football IQ stand out, making him a perfect fit for Venables’ defensive schemes.
“He’s got great range, he’s a student of the game, and he’s always in the right position,” said defensive backs coach Jay Valai. “You can tell he’s been well-coached at Carl Albert, and that’s going to translate well to what we do here.”
A Bright Future for the Sooners’ Carl Albert Crew
The addition of Sperry, James, and Washington is a testament to Oklahoma’s commitment to securing in-state talent, especially from programs like Carl Albert, where winning is the standard.
With the Sooners moving into the SEC, the need for gritty, battle-tested players has never been greater. This trio of former Titans isn’t just coming to Norman to wear the jersey—they’re coming to compete, contribute, and continue Oklahoma’s tradition of excellence.
“The expectation is high for them, and I have no doubt they’ll rise to the occasion,” Venables said. “We’re excited about what they bring, both on and off the field.”
One thing is certain—the Carl Albert connection at Oklahoma is alive and well, and this latest trio is ready to prove why.
