I Can See Myself Here: DE Matthew Nelson Intrigued by Oklahoma Visit
In what could prove to be a pivotal moment in his recruitment journey, three-star defensive end Matthew Nelson recently took his first visit to the University of Oklahoma — and came away with a feeling many Sooner fans will be thrilled to hear: “I can see myself here.”
The 6-foot-4, 245-pound pass-rusher from Georgia is gaining increasing attention from top Power Five programs, but his trip to Norman has clearly elevated Oklahoma in his eyes. From the moment he stepped onto the historic campus to the time he left, the Sooners coaching staff, culture, and vision made a lasting impression on Nelson, who is considered one of the more under-the-radar but high-upside defensive prospects in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
“It was everything I expected — and more,” Nelson told local reporters after his visit. “There’s a different kind of energy here. From the players to the coaches to the facilities — it feels like home. I can see myself here.”
That quote alone speaks volumes, especially for a prospect who has several official visits lined up with other programs. Nelson, who currently holds offers from schools like South Carolina, Missouri, UCF, and Mississippi State, now appears to have Oklahoma among his top schools — if not already the leader.
A Strong First Impression
The visit included a tour of the facilities, meetings with coaches, and one-on-one conversations with current players and staff members. According to Nelson, the most impressive part wasn’t just the stadium or weight room, but the people.
“I think people underestimate how much the relationships matter,” he said. “Yes, the stadium is huge. Yes, the resources are crazy. But it’s the coaching staff that stood out the most. Coach (Brent) Venables and Coach (Todd) Bates were real with me — they weren’t just saying what I wanted to hear.”
Venables, a defensive-minded head coach who has built his career on aggressive, high-motor defenses, is clearly putting in the work on the recruiting trail. His background as Clemson’s defensive coordinator and now head coach at Oklahoma has made him a respected name among recruits — particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Nelson said he had an in-depth session with Venables about the Sooners’ defensive philosophy and how he could fit into it. “Coach Venables showed me film, broke down how they’d use me, and explained how I could grow in their system. It was detailed. They’re not just looking to fill a spot — they want to develop dogs,” Nelson said.
Coach Todd Bates, Oklahoma’s defensive line coach and one of the most renowned recruiters in the country, also played a key role in the visit. Nelson described Bates as “genuine and intense in a good way.”
“He’s the type of coach that you can learn a lot from — not just football, but life. He talked about discipline, about work ethic, and what it takes to be elite. I respect that,” Nelson added.
A Defense Under Construction — and Opportunity
Part of what excites Nelson is the opportunity to be a difference-maker early in his college career. With Oklahoma’s move to the SEC now fully underway, the Sooners are building a defense that can withstand the weekly battles of the toughest conference in the nation. That means bringing in guys like Nelson who are not only physically talented but mentally wired to compete at a high level.
“I see what they’re trying to build,” Nelson said. “They’re not satisfied. They’re hungry. They’re building something, and I want to be part of something that’s ascending.”
That vision, combined with Oklahoma’s commitment to player development, appears to be a major selling point for Nelson. The Sooners have recently sent several defensive linemen to the NFL, and the pitch of being the next in line was not lost on him.
“Coach Bates showed me the progression of guys he’s coached and how they transformed over three or four years,” Nelson said. “I’m still learning and developing, and that’s what I want — a place that’s going to push me.”
Bonding with Future Teammates?
Another standout moment from Nelson’s trip was the chance to hang out with current players and some fellow recruits. He noted that there was a “family feel” among the team, something that’s becoming increasingly important for recruits who want to find a home away from home.
“These guys treat each other like brothers,” Nelson said. “They compete hard, but they also look out for each other. That’s the kind of environment I thrive in.”
During the visit, Nelson reportedly connected with several commits and targets in the Sooners’ 2025 class, including four-star defensive lineman Trent Wilson. Having other high-profile recruits showing interest and building camaraderie early may influence his eventual decision.
“It’s one thing to visit a school alone. It’s another to be around other guys who are just as hungry as you and see yourself grinding with them every day,” Nelson reflected. “I got that vibe here.”
A Big Decision Ahead
Although Nelson has yet to release a list of top schools or announce a commitment timeline, it’s clear that Oklahoma is now firmly in the mix. If anything, the visit has shifted the tone of his recruitment, perhaps more than even the Sooners anticipated.
“I’m going to take my time,” Nelson said. “I’ve got other visits, but this trip definitely set a high bar.”
Recruiting insiders now view Oklahoma as a serious player in Nelson’s recruitment, with some speculating that a strong follow-up could push the Sooners into pole position. With the summer recruiting period heating up and several commitments expected across the nation in the coming months, Nelson’s decision will be one to watch closely.
What’s Next?
For now, Nelson will return home, review his notes, and prepare for his upcoming visits. But the echoes of Norman — the crowd, the coaches, the future teammates — may linger longer than he expected.
“I walked away feeling like I belonged,” Nelson said. “It’s hard to explain, but sometimes you just know when a place fits you. Oklahoma fits.”
The Sooners will no doubt continue their pursuit of the high-upside pass rusher, knowing that their first impression might have just given them the edge they need.
One visit, one connection, and possibly one decision that could shape Oklahoma’s future defense. Nelson may not have made his commitment yet, but after his visit to Norman, one thing is clear:
He can see himself there.
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