Former Alabama running back commitment Justice Haynes has officially announced his commitment to the University of Oklahoma, following his decision to enter the NCAA transfer
portal. Haynes, a highly ranked five-star prospect from Buford, Georgia, originally signed with Alabama as part of their 2023 recruiting class but has now chosen to continue his
college career with the Sooners. His decision to transfer marks a significant move in his pursuit of more playing time and a central role in Oklahoma’s backfield.
Haynes, who was one of the top running back recruits in the nation, initially committed to Alabama with high expectations due to his exceptional speed, vision, and power during his
high school career. As a freshman, however, he found himself behind a deep and experienced running back group at Alabama, limiting his opportunities to see consistent playing time.
Despite the challenges, Haynes showed flashes of his potential when given the chance, impressing coaches and analysts alike with his playmaking ability.
In a statement announcing his commitment to Oklahoma, Haynes expressed his excitement for the opportunity ahead. “I’m thrilled to join the Oklahoma family and play for Coach Venables
and his staff,” Haynes said. “This is a program with a rich tradition, and I’m excited to be a part of what they are building here. I believe this is the best place for me to continue my growth and make an impact on the field.”
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables and his staff were quick to extend an offer to Haynes after he entered the transfer portal, recognizing the immediate impact he could make in their
offense. With a need for depth in the running back position, the Sooners are eager to add a dynamic playmaker like Haynes, who can bring both explosiveness and power to their ground game.
The Sooners’ offense, which has undergone significant changes in recent years, is expected to rely heavily on the running back position in 2024. Haynes’ addition provides Oklahoma with
an elite athlete who can step in and potentially take on a featured role in the Sooners’ backfield. His ability to break tackles, coupled with his speed to hit the edge, makes him a perfect fit for
Oklahoma’s fast-paced offensive system. For Haynes, the move to Oklahoma represents an opportunity to earn a starting role and play in an offense that will allow him to showcase his
talents on a bigger stage. After spending his first year at Alabama as part of a crowded backfield, Haynes is looking forward to the chance to be more involved in the game plan at Oklahoma and contribute immediately.
With his commitment, Haynes becomes one of the most high-profile transfers for Oklahoma this offseason, giving the Sooners a much-needed boost in the running back position. As he
prepares to make an impact at his new home, Haynes will look to build on his considerable potential and help lead the Sooners toward championship contention in the coming years.
Justice Haynes’ transfer to Oklahoma is another sign of the changing landscape of college football, where players are increasingly seeking opportunities for greater playing time and a chance to develop their careers. For Oklahoma, landing Haynes is a key win as they continue to strengthen their roster and position themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 and beyond.