OSU Safeties: New Era, Fresh Faces

The Oklahoma State Cowboys are set for a revamped safety position in the 2026 season, marked by a significant turnover in personnel. New head coach Eric Morris and defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity, one of college football's youngest coordinators, are leading the effort to improve a defense that struggled last year.

The safety group is notably deep, benefiting from Cassity's 4-2-5 defensive scheme, which requires three safeties on the field. This depth is bolstered by the experience of 14 players in camp, most of whom have prior college football experience, even if redshirted. Only three players are freshmen, with two being true freshmen.

Key to the unit are transfers Quentin Hammonds and Evan Jackson from North Texas, both projected starters. Hammonds recorded 53 tackles and multiple turnovers last season, earning national player of the week honors. Jackson contributed 45 tackles and two interceptions. Other potential starters include Washington transfer Vincent Holmes and Liberty's Christian Bodnar.

A significant unknown is the impact of true freshman Braeden Presley. While listed as a safety, his versatility in high school, where he played multiple positions and excelled offensively and defensively, makes him a potential 'joker' player. The coaching staff will need to strategically integrate him to maximize his contribution while managing his transition to college football.