BRENT VENABLES: “I’m Motivated by Relationships, Not Money” — Why the Oklahoma Sooners Will Always Have His Heart
When Brent Venables speaks about Oklahoma, there’s no ambiguity in his voice. It’s passion — raw, unwavering, and deeply personal. The Sooners’ head coach recently made headlines after turning down a lucrative multi-million-dollar offer from a major SEC powerhouse, choosing instead to remain at the helm of the Oklahoma Sooners football program. But for Venables, the decision was never about the money. It was about loyalty, relationships, and an unshakable bond with a university he calls home.
“I’m motivated by relationships, not money,” Venables said in a candid sit-down with local reporters. “I’ve always loved the Sooners from the depth of my soul.”
A Journey That Comes Full Circle
Venables’ connection to Oklahoma traces back to his time as defensive coordinator under Bob Stoops from 1999 to 2011 — a golden era in Sooners history. During those years, Venables helped guide Oklahoma to a national championship and developed a reputation as one of the most fiery, innovative, and effective defensive minds in college football.
When he returned to Norman in 2022 as head coach, it wasn’t just a professional homecoming — it was spiritual. “This place raised me. It shaped me. I met lifelong friends here. I grew as a coach and as a man here,” he explained.
For Venables, Oklahoma isn’t just another job; it’s where his coaching philosophy, character, and vision all matured. “This university poured into me when I was still figuring out who I was,” he said. “How could I ever walk away from that, no matter the offer?”
Family, Faith, and Football
Those close to Venables know that his foundation rests on three pillars: family, faith, and football — in that order. And those pillars are tightly interwoven into the fabric of Oklahoma’s culture.
“The relationships I’ve built here — with players, coaches, alumni, and fans — they matter more to me than any paycheck,” Venables said. “This isn’t about dollars and cents. It’s about belonging to something greater than yourself.”
His players echo that sentiment. Quarterback Jackson Arnold described Venables as “more than just a coach,” calling him “a mentor and a father figure who leads with his heart.”
It’s no secret that Venables has always emphasized the importance of culture and connection. At every turn, he reinforces the idea that building strong relationships leads to lasting success on and off the field.
The Temptation of Wealth — and the Strength to Resist It
Venables reportedly received an offer north of $95 million from another high-profile program. It included performance bonuses, a private jet, and even full control over athletic department decisions. But to Venables, no amount of money could replace the family atmosphere he has cultivated in Norman.
“I’m not judging anyone who chases the money — we all have our own paths,” he said. “But for me, the most valuable currency is trust and legacy.”
He added, “I’ve worked too hard to build something special here, and I’m not willing to abandon that for a higher salary.”
It’s an uncommon stance in today’s landscape, where massive coaching contracts and NIL money have turned college football into a high-stakes arms race. But Venables remains grounded, focused on purpose rather than profit.
Shaping the Next Generation
Another reason Venables stayed is the mission he’s committed to off the field — molding young men into leaders, scholars, and role models.
“The greatest joy I get is not from the wins — though we love those — but from watching these young guys grow,” Venables said. “Helping a kid come in at 18 and leave at 22 as a strong, confident, responsible man — that’s the reward.”
He’s instituted mentorship programs, mental health initiatives, and academic incentives aimed at ensuring his players leave with more than just football accolades. And that level of commitment has fostered an environment of loyalty and respect.
Defensive lineman PJ Adebawore put it plainly: “Coach Venables doesn’t just prepare us for Saturdays. He prepares us for life.”
Loyalty in a Time of Change
As college football undergoes seismic shifts — from conference realignment to expanded playoffs — the Sooners’ transition to the SEC in 2024 marked a pivotal moment. Many assumed Venables would be tempted to move on, seeing the looming pressure and challenges as reasons to jump ship. But he doubled down instead.
“This is where I want to be when the dust settles,” Venables said. “This is where I want to plant my flag and fight. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it.”
In many ways, Venables is redefining what success means in modern college football. While others chase higher-paying contracts or flashier destinations, he’s anchored himself in values: loyalty, character, and service.
A Message to Sooner Nation
Venables has a message for Oklahoma fans — a message of gratitude and commitment.
“I love this fan base. I love our players. I love the mission we’re on. And I love being part of the Sooner family,” he said. “I’m here to win championships, yes — but more importantly, I’m here to serve. This program has always stood for integrity, passion, and excellence. That’s what I’ll continue to uphold.”
As he enters the next chapter of his tenure, Venables is focused on taking the Sooners to new heights in the SEC, recruiting elite talent, and fortifying the cultural foundation that makes Oklahoma unique.
“I’ve had opportunities to leave,” he acknowledged. “But every time I look around at this place, I realize — why would I ever want to?”
The Legacy in Motion
Brent Venables isn’t chasing fortune or fame. He’s chasing impact. And in Norman, he’s already built a legacy rooted in something far more powerful than money — love.
Love for the game. Love for the university. And love for the people who believe in the power of connection over compensation.
In a sport increasingly shaped by big business, Venables is a reminder that some coaches still bleed for their school — and that
some decisions are made not with a calculator, but with a conscience.