I loved every part really: With a few months still remaining before National Signing Day, Burns’ recruitment story is far from over—and this visit to Oklahoma is just the latest chapter

Baylor Commit Kaleb Burns Visits Oklahoma During Big Win Over Alabama

Baylor’s 4-star linebacker commit Kaleb Burns made a significant move over the weekend, taking an official visit to Oklahoma for the Sooners’ impressive victory over Alabama. The visit to Norman marked a pivotal moment in Burns’ recruitment, especially as he was already verbally committed to the Bears, a decision that he had made earlier in the process. However, with Oklahoma hosting one of the top teams in the country in Alabama, Burns was clearly intrigued by the opportunity to experience a game-day atmosphere at one of college football’s most storied programs.

The Sooners’ 28-21 win over the Crimson Tide was not just a marquee matchup, but a victory that could have serious implications in both the playoff race and the recruitment of future stars like Burns. For a prospect of his caliber, taking in the spectacle of a big-time win like this would undoubtedly make an impression, and with Oklahoma being a national power in its own right, the visit adds another layer of intrigue to Burns’ recruitment.

The Impact of the Visit on Kaleb Burns

Kaleb Burns, a standout linebacker from the 2025 class, has been a key target for Baylor since his commitment, which he made with a strong sense of loyalty. As a 4-star recruit, Burns is highly regarded for his athleticism, instincts, and leadership on the field, making him a major asset for any program. His decision to take the official visit to Oklahoma, however, raises questions about the long-term stability of his commitment to the Bears.

While Burns has not wavered publicly from his Baylor commitment, a visit to a powerhouse like Oklahoma could signal that other programs are still in the mix. The Sooners’ dominant performance against Alabama certainly showcased their potential for championship contention, which could be enticing to a prospect like Burns, who will be looking for the best path to a successful college career. In addition to the game atmosphere, Burns had the chance to engage with coaches, players, and see firsthand what the Oklahoma program has to offer, which only deepens the intrigue.

Oklahoma’s Pitch to Kaleb Burns

Oklahoma has long been one of the top programs in college football, and with the Sooners now firmly entrenched in the playoff picture, they have a strong case to make in Burns’ recruitment. For defensive recruits like Burns, the chance to play in a high-profile defense and develop under a coaching staff with a proven track record is a compelling offer. Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables, known for his defensive expertise, would be particularly appealing to Burns, whose future on the field will likely rely on his ability to make an impact on that side of the ball.

Burns’ visit to Oklahoma also gives the Sooners a chance to continue building the relationship with the linebacker and demonstrate why he might fit perfectly in their defensive schemes moving forward. With the 2024 season winding down and Burns set to make his final college decision in the coming months, every official visit and experience will play a pivotal role in shaping his future.

What’s Next for Kaleb Burns?

While Burns is still committed to Baylor, the Oklahoma visit adds complexity to his recruitment. Baylor will certainly need to keep the pressure on with their own recruitment pitch, emphasizing their strong defensive culture and his potential role in their system. Given Burns’ talent, he is a highly sought-after recruit, and schools like Oklahoma, who can deliver elite football experiences and national exposure, will continue to pursue him.

At this point, the decision will ultimately come down to what Burns values most in his college football future: loyalty to his current commitment, the allure of a championship contender like Oklahoma, or another factor that might sway him. As the recruitment process continues to unfold, fans of both Baylor and Oklahoma will be watching closely to see where one of the nation’s top linebacker prospects ultimately decides to take his talents.

With a few months still remaining before National Signing Day, Burns’ recruitment story is far from over—and this visit to Oklahoma is just the latest chapter.