Former Oklahoma Sooners football standout and Biletnikoff Award winner Dede Westbrook has officially accepted a newly created position within the Oklahoma University football program. Westbrook, a dynamic wide receiver who lit up college football fields during his time with the Sooners, will now serve as Player Development and Offensive Skills Specialist. This role is designed to mentor current players both on and off the field, focusing on helping wide receivers hone their craft while providing invaluable guidance on navigating the pressures of college athletics.
Westbrook, who was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2016 and captured the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver, is widely regarded as one of the best to ever wear the crimson and cream. His record-setting season saw him haul in 80 receptions for 1,524 yards and 17 touchdowns, performances that made him a household name in Norman and beyond. His return to the university marks a full-circle moment, bringing his wealth of experience back to the same locker room where his own career took flight.
According to Head Coach Brent Venables, the decision to bring Westbrook onboard was a no-brainer. “Dede has always been a guy who leads by example. His journey—from overcoming injuries to achieving greatness at the collegiate and professional level—is the kind of story our players need to hear,” Venables stated. “Having someone who’s actually walked this path, experienced the highs and lows, and succeeded, is invaluable for our program.”
For Westbrook, the opportunity represents more than just a job; it’s a chance to give back to the community and university that helped shape his career. “Oklahoma gave me everything. This is home,” Westbrook said during his introductory press conference. “I’m here to help these young men not only become better players but better people. Whether it’s mastering routes, understanding the playbook, or preparing for life after football, I want to be a resource for them.”
The news of Westbrook’s appointment has sent waves of excitement through the fanbase and alumni community. Social media lit up with congratulatory messages from former teammates, fans, and NFL colleagues who praised the move as both inspiring and strategic. As Oklahoma continues to navigate the challenges of a hyper-competitive college football landscape, having a seasoned, respected figure like Dede Westbrook in the fold is expected to elevate the program’s player development efforts and strengthen its recruiting appeal for years to come.
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