The Oklahoma State Cowboys enter the 2026 season with one of the most crowded defensive end rooms in the Big 12, a depth that veteran Jaleel Johnson says is unmatched on the roster.
Having spent four years in Stillwater, Johnson will rely on his final year to demonstrate how the group can generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, a narrative that gained added weight after he missed most of the previous season due to a shoulder injury.
The defensive end position includes versatile talents such as James Williams, Saadiq Clements and Jerry Lawson, each bringing a different skill set that allows the coaching staff to experiment with multiple schemes.
Johnson emphasized that the sheer number of players — nearly 90 newcomers arriving via the transfer portal — creates a competitive environment that pushes everyone to elevate their game.
Coaches can rotate fresh legs and fresh ideas, meaning the pass rush can stay fresh late into games, a factor that could be decisive in close conference matchups.
A Veteran's Perspective
Offensive coordinator Eric Morris has already spoken about the challenge his unit will face, noting that the Cowboys' defensive front will test even the most experienced quarterbacks.
Head coach Mike Gundy, who has overseen the program's recent resurgence, believes that the depth at defensive end is a strategic advantage that aligns with his vision for a balanced attack.
As the season progresses, the performance of this defensive end cohort will serve as a litmus test for Johnson's claim that the group is the deepest on the team, potentially influencing his prospects at the next level.