On Monday afternoon, Jermayne Lole, a former defensive lineman for Louisville and Arizona State, made public his decision to join Oklahoma after entering the transfer portal.
Lole, who will embark on his seventh year in college football in 2024, faced setbacks in his career, missing the entirety of the 2021 season at Arizona State and participating in only two games in 2022 at Louisville before being sidelined by injury. Over the span of 2020 to 2022, he saw action in just six games due to various injuries.
Despite these challenges, Lole showcased his skills during the 2023 season with the Cardinals, playing in 12 games and clocking 411 snaps, marking the second-highest total in his career. His contributions included five tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two pass breakups, earning him a respectable 69.1 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus.
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Throughout his collegiate journey, Lole has demonstrated his durability and impact, appearing in at least 10 games in three separate seasons. His breakout year occurred in 2019 while playing for the Sun Devils, where he amassed 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, garnering a solid 75.3 defensive grade from PFF.
Lole’s decision to join Oklahoma is seen as a significant boost for the team, particularly in light of their impending move to the SEC. Prior to his commitment, the Sooners lacked size and experience on the interior defensive line. With Lole’s addition alongside Da’Jon Terry, the team gains much-needed depth and expertise, alleviating the pressure on younger players like Gracen Halton, David Stone, and Jayden Jackson.
His commitment to Oklahoma follows his attendance at the team’s spring game, where he visited alongside other transfer portal prospects. Lole’s decision marks the third commitment for the Sooners since the Red/White Game, joining former SMU center Branson Hickman and highly sought-after 2027 edge rusher Zane Rowe.
