The Oklahoma Sooners football program is making more changes to its coaching staff, this time adding to its strength and conditioning team. According to a meeting agenda for the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents later this week, Matt Manninger is set to join the Sooners as the Senior Strength and Conditioning Trainer.

What We Know About the Hire

Manninger comes to Oklahoma from the University of Illinois, where he has been since 2021. Before that, he worked under James Dobson at Vanderbilt from 2015 to 2020. Dobson, who is now Oklahoma’s Director of Sports Enhancement and Strength and Conditioning, will lead the revamped strength staff.

This hire follows a recent shakeup in OU’s strength and conditioning department. Jerry Schmidt, who previously held Dobson’s role, is transitioning to a new position as Elite Performance Liaison. The staff also includes Scott Kolok, Josue Matias, and Reggie McGrew as Assistant Directors of Sports Performance.

Why It Matters

Strength and conditioning play a huge role in college football, especially in a program like Oklahoma’s that’s looking to make waves in the SEC. Manninger’s experience working with Dobson at Vanderbilt likely played a part in the decision to bring him aboard. The familiarity between the two could help ensure a smooth transition as the Sooners ramp up for the upcoming season.

For fans keeping track, this isn’t the only staff change for OU football this offseason. Jason Witten was recently hired as the new tight ends coach, replacing Joe Jon Finley, who was let go. These moves show that Oklahoma is focused on building a strong foundation both on and off the field as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

What’s Next

The University of Oklahoma Board of Regents will officially appoint Manninger and other new hires during their meeting later this week. Once finalized, Manninger will begin working with the team alongside Dobson and the rest of the strength staff. Fans can expect to see the results of these changes as the Sooners continue their offseason training.

For now, it’s clear that Oklahoma is making moves to stay competitive in the ever-tougher SEC landscape. With experienced hires like Manninger, the Sooners are aiming to ensure their players are physically and mentally prepared for the season ahead.