Oklahoma loses commitment from 5-star QB, others after Riley's departure

Oklahoma lost commitments from three notable 2023 recruits, including No. 3 overall prospect Malachi Nelson, following head coach Lincoln Riley's departure.

"In light of recent events and changes, my family and I believe it's best if I decommit from (Oklahoma) at this time," Nelson said in a statement.

He added: "I'm not opening up my recruitment, I just want to see how everything transpires."

A five-star quarterback, Nelson was the Sooners' top prospect from their 2023 class.

Four-star wide receiver Brandon Inniss also announced Sunday that he won't be a part of the Sooners' recruiting class. Inniss is the No. 29 overall prospect for 2023, according to ESPN.

"After a long talk with my family, I have decided to decommit from the University of Oklahoma and open up my recruitment to all schools," Inniss posted in a statement on Twitter.

Treyaun Webb joined Nelson and Inniss in hopping out of the 2023 class, citing "recent changes" at Oklahoma. Webb, a four-star running back, is the No. 152-ranked prospect for 2023, per ESPN.

The Sooners also lost two big commitments from their 2022 class. Four-star defensive end and No. 23 overall prospect Derrick Moore said he will reopen his recruiting process, while four-star linebacker Kobie McKinzie announced his departure due to uncertainty with the team's coaching situation.

Meanwhile, 2023 four-star wide receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to the Sooners amid the departures.

USC announced Riley as its new head coach Sunday. Riley served as Oklahoma's head coach since 2017, putting up a 55-10 record.