Drake Stoops

Born on June 16, 1999, Drake Stoops has established an outstanding career in professional football, holding a remarkable position as a wide receiver within the acclaimed ranks of the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). Boasting a myriad of notable accomplishments and commendable athletic feats under his belt, Stoops’ rapid ascent to football prominence is a testament to his relentless hard work, indefatigable persistence, and sheer talent.

In his genesis, Stoops was no stranger to the football field. Being the son of the celebrated former Sooners head coach, Bob Stoops, and the nephew of Mike and Mark Stoops, he held astounding football heritage within his veins. He attended high school at Norman North in Norman, Oklahoma, where along with his brother Isaac, both earned their foofball stripes on the high school gridiron. Showcasing a tenacious performance, he recorded an impressive 86 receptions for a total of 1,536 yards and 20 touchdowns in his junior year, propelling Norman North to the state championship.

The momentum carried forward into his senior year, where despite playing only ten games, he racked up 67 catches for 1,093 yards and 15 touchdowns. His high school career was decorated by a monumental tally of 201 catches for 3,390 yards and 39 touchdowns, achievements that won him a two-time first-team all-state selection by The Oklahoman.

Stoops attracted the attention of several football programs when he reached the recruiting stage. Major services 247Sports and Rivals classified him as a three-star recruit and he was extended scholarship offers from Air Force, Iowa, Memphis, Ohio, and Western Kentucky. But the allure of his birthplace was too strong to decline, and he committed to the Oklahoma Sooners as a preferred walk-on, embarking on a new chapter with his brother Isaac.

Despite his brother leaving the team before their freshman season, Stoops quickly made his mark in the squad. The head coach, Lincoln Riley, noted that while Stoops might not have boasted the most physically imposing stature or speedy track records, his prowess and football heritage made him a player to watch. His instincts proved right as Stoops emerged as the first true freshman walk-on in the school’s history to record a catch in a season opener.

With the conclusion of CeeDee Lamb’s term, Stoops was primed for a bigger role. In his sophomore year, he played all 14 games, functioning as a reserve receiver and punt returner. He tallied eight receptions for 95 yards, achieving a career-high 28 yards in his first bowl game, the 2019 Peach Bowl against LSU.

His performance kept improving, and despite missing the season’s opening game, he caught 93-yard passes, including a career-long 51-yard touchdown in a loss against Kansas State. This was followed by a game-winning touchdown in a match against Texas, where he scored on a 20-yard reception from Spencer Rattler.

His efforts were rewarded generously in the following spring game, where he was offered a scholarship by head coach Lincoln Riley. Despite missing three games in his junior year, he made a substantial impact, recording 16 receptions for 191 yards and two touchdowns.

Upon Lincoln Riley’s departure for USC, the baton was passed to Bob Stoops, Drake’s father, who served as the interim head coach for the 2021 Alamo Bowl. Under his father’s coaching, Stoops made an impactful reception for a touchdown.

His senior year witnessed further success under the new head coach Brent Venables. Not one to rest on his laurels, he played in all 13 games, making ten starts and tying for the second-highest number of receptions in the team with 39. He tallied a career-high 393 yards and three touchdowns. His performance against Oklahoma State was especially notable, making six receptions for 89 yards and a touchdown. His stellar season statistics included averaging 10.1 yards per catch, with all his numbers marking career highs.

Upon finishing college, Stoops joined the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent on May 2, 2024. Majestic on the field and equally formidable in profession, Drake Stoops is at the zenith of their abilities. He was also a tenth-round choice by the Arlington Renegades during the 2024 UFL draft on July 17. However, he was waived on August 27 and was soon re-signed to the practice squad. A living testament to his lineage, Drake Stoops continues to carve out his legacy, shining in the stellar realm of professional football.