David Stone, a junior defensive lineman for the Oklahoma Sooners, has been named one of seven permanent captains for the 2026 college football season, a distinction that marks his entry into a leadership role he has yet to hold.
A New Leadership Model Takes Shape
The appointment aligns with head coach Brent Venables' decision to replace his traditional weekly captain rotation with a permanent captaincy structure introduced last year, signaling a strategic shift toward sustained team cohesion.
Stone acknowledges the weight of the responsibility, especially after missing key spring practices due to lingering injuries that limited his participation in team drills.
Rather than relying on instinct, he has turned to feedback from teammates, using their insights to refine his approach and adapt his leadership style to the group's needs.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Over the past two seasons, Stone has recorded 48 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks across 26 appearances, numbers that reflect his contributions on the defensive front.
His ambition for the upcoming year extends beyond personal statistics; he aims to leave a lasting imprint on the program by fostering unity and elevating the team's collective performance.
The permanent captain structure mirrors the previous season's setup, ensuring continuity while giving new voices like Stone a platform to shape the team's culture.