A young talent is making waves in the Oklahoma football program, and his name is Preston Tarpley.
From Texas Fields to Norman’s Campus
Preston Tarpley arrived at the University of Oklahoma in the summer of 2025 as a walk‑on kicker, joining a group of underclassmen hoping to leave their mark.
His high school résumé reads like a championship ledger: three consecutive state titles at Gunter High School, where he starred as both quarterback and kicker, and earned multiple All‑State honors.
Beyond the gridiron, Tarpley distinguished himself academically, earning a place on the 2025 National Football Foundation Team of Distinction with a 4.62 GPA, Valedictorian status, and membership in the National Honor Society.
The competition for the Sooners’ kicking spot is already crowded, with incumbent Tate Sandell holding the position, while Jacob Ulrich and Grayson Miller battle for punting duties.
Coaches see Tarpley’s blend of leg strength and poise as a potential boost, and the redshirt freshman is slated to contribute in the upcoming fall season.