GOOD NEWS: 7-Foot, 5-Star WR Malachi Toney Commits to Oklahoma, Declining Offers from Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State

Norman, OK – The Oklahoma Sooners have landed one of the most jaw-dropping recruits in college football history, as 7-foot, 5-star wide receiver Malachi Toney has officially committed to the University of Oklahoma. Toney, one of the most highly sought-after prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, turned down offers from Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State to play for head coach Brent Venables and the Sooners.

His commitment not only strengthens Oklahoma’s already impressive recruiting class but also signals the Sooners’ continued push to compete at the highest level as they transition into the SEC.

A Historic Commitment

Toney’s size, athleticism, and playmaking ability have made him one of the most talked-about recruits in recent years. Standing at an unheard-of 7 feet tall, he possesses a unique blend of size, speed, and agility that has scouts comparing him to some of the greatest wide receivers in history—if not redefining the position entirely.

“This is a dream come true,” Toney said during his commitment announcement. “Oklahoma felt like home from the first visit. The coaching staff, the energy, and the opportunity to be part of something special—it all just made sense. I want to compete against the best, and I believe OU is the best place for me to do that.”

Why Oklahoma?

Toney’s decision to commit to Oklahoma speaks volumes about the Sooners’ rising status in the college football landscape. With their move to the SEC in 2024, Oklahoma has been working aggressively to build a roster capable of competing with the nation’s elite programs.

Offensive coordinator Seth Littrell and wide receivers coach Emmett Jones played key roles in recruiting Toney, outlining a vision where he could immediately become a focal point of the Sooners’ high-powered offense. The opportunity to play in a scheme that showcases dynamic playmakers, combined with Oklahoma’s strong track record of developing NFL talent, proved to be the perfect fit.

“Malachi is a once-in-a-generation talent,” said Venables. “His ability to stretch the field, win jump-ball situations, and dominate physically is unlike anything we’ve ever seen at the receiver position. He’s going to change the way defenses approach us, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him in Norman.”

Turning Down College Football’s Powerhouses

Toney’s recruitment was a battle between the nation’s most storied programs. Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State all made aggressive pushes to land the star receiver, each offering him the opportunity to be the face of their respective offenses.

Alabama, long known for producing elite NFL wide receivers, had been viewed as a frontrunner for much of the process, while Ohio State—the self-proclaimed “Wide Receiver U”—was also heavily involved. Auburn made a late push, promising a system tailored around Toney’s skill set.

Ultimately, however, it was Oklahoma that won him over.

“I have the utmost respect for those programs,” Toney said. “They’re all great schools with great coaches, and I built relationships with a lot of people during the process. But at the end of the day, I felt like Oklahoma was the best fit for me, both on and off the field.”

What Toney Brings to the Sooners

It’s not every day that a 7-foot wide receiver comes along, and Toney’s physical attributes alone make him a nightmare for defenders. However, he’s far more than just a towering presence.

• Elite Athleticism – Despite his height, Toney moves with the fluidity of a much smaller receiver. He runs crisp routes, accelerates quickly off the line, and has an impressive ability to change direction.
• Unmatched Catch Radius – With a wingspan exceeding 7 feet, Toney can high-point the ball like no one else in college football. Even when tightly covered, quarterbacks can confidently throw it up and trust him to make the catch.
• Speed and Agility – Unlike most tall receivers, Toney has legitimate breakaway speed. He ran a 4.4-second 40-yard dash in high school, making him a deep threat in addition to a red-zone nightmare.
• Strong Hands and Physicality – He’s nearly impossible to jam at the line of scrimmage and has the strength to outmuscle defensive backs in contested situations.

With Oklahoma’s up-tempo offense, Toney will have every opportunity to showcase his skill set from day one. The Sooners’ quarterback room, led by former 5-star recruit Jackson Arnold, is stacked with talent, ensuring that Toney will have an elite passer throwing him the ball.

A Game-Changer for Oklahoma’s Future

Landing Toney is a statement win for Oklahoma, proving that the program is ready to battle the SEC’s best in both recruiting and on the field. His commitment also sets the tone for other elite recruits who may now see Oklahoma as a premier destination.

“This is just the beginning,” Toney said. “I want to bring championships to Norman. I believe in what Coach Venables and his staff are building, and I’m ready to get to work.”

With Malachi Toney officially a Sooner, Oklahoma fans have every reason to be excited. The college football world will be watching closely, and if his high school dominance is any indication, Toney is on track to become one of the most electrifying players in the sport.