Drake Stoops Bio
Drake Stoops (born June 16, 1999) is an American professional football wide receiver currently with the Los Angeles Rams. He played college football at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned recognition as a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2023. Drake is the son of former Oklahoma Sooners head coach Bob Stoops and comes from a family with deep football roots.
Early Life and Background
Drake Stoops was born in Norman, Oklahoma, USA. He attended Norman North High School, where he distinguished himself as a talented wide receiver. During his junior year, he caught 86 passes for 1,536 yards and 20 touchdowns, helping lead his team to the state championship game. In his senior year, he recorded 67 receptions for 1,093 yards and 15 touchdowns over 10 games. By the end of his high school career, Stoops had amassed 201 catches for 3,390 yards and 39 touchdowns, earning two first-team all-state honors from The Oklahoman.
Despite his impressive high school statistics, Stoops was rated as a three-star recruit and received scholarship offers from several programs including Air Force, Iowa, Memphis, Ohio, and Western Kentucky. He ultimately chose to join the Oklahoma Sooners as a preferred walk-on, following in the footsteps of his family’s legacy at the university.
Path to American Football
At Oklahoma, Drake Stoops joined the football program alongside his brother Isaac, who also played wide receiver but left the team before their freshman season. Head coach Lincoln Riley noted that Stoops was not highly recruited due to his size and speed but acknowledged the significance of his family name. Stoops made an immediate impact by becoming the first true freshman walk-on to record a catch in a season opener for the Sooners.
Over his college career, Stoops steadily developed his skills and role on the team. He contributed as a reserve receiver and punt returner during his sophomore year and saw increased playing time after the departure of key receivers. His versatility and clutch performances, such as scoring a game-winning touchdown in a four-overtime victory against Texas, highlighted his value to the team.
Drake Stoops Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Drake Stoops began his collegiate career in 2018, appearing in the first two games and catching two passes for 16 yards against Florida Atlantic. He played in all 14 games as a sophomore, contributing eight receptions for 95 yards and serving as a punt returner. In the 2019 Peach Bowl against LSU, he caught two passes for a career-high 28 yards.
In 2020, Stoops played in 10 games with seven starts, recording 15 receptions for 219 yards and two touchdowns. Notably, he caught a career-long 51-yard touchdown against Kansas State and scored the game-winning touchdown in the intense four-overtime win over Texas.
Oklahoma Sooners Breakthrough (2021–2023)
Prior to the 2021 season, Stoops was awarded a scholarship by head coach Lincoln Riley. Despite missing three games that year, he recorded 16 receptions for 191 yards and two touchdowns. During the 2021 Alamo Bowl, he played under his father, Bob Stoops, who served as interim head coach, and caught a touchdown pass.
Under new head coach Brent Venables in 2022, Stoops played in all 13 games with ten starts. He tied for second on the team with 39 receptions, totaling 393 yards and three touchdowns. His performances against Oklahoma State and Texas Tech marked career highs in receptions and yards. His senior season was his most productive, averaging 10.1 yards per catch and earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2023.
Los Angeles Rams Era (2024–Present)
Drake Stoops entered the professional ranks in 2024 when he signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent. He was also selected by the Arlington Renegades in the 2024 UFL draft. Stoops was waived during final roster cuts in August 2024 but was promptly re-signed to the Rams’ practice squad. He later signed a reserve/future contract with the team in January 2025. Despite being waived again in August 2025, Stoops remains a part of the Rams organization, continuing to develop his professional career.
Playing Style and Strengths
Drake Stoops is known for his reliable hands, route-running precision, and ability to make clutch plays in critical moments. His experience as a punt returner adds versatility to his skill set. Stoops’ football IQ and family background contribute to his understanding of the game and adaptability on the field.
Notable Events and Milestones
Stoops’ career highlights include his game-winning touchdown in the four-overtime victory against Texas and earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2023. Playing under his father in the 2021 Alamo Bowl was a unique milestone, underscoring his football lineage.
Drake Stoops Career Wins
While Drake Stoops’ career is primarily measured by his receptions and touchdowns rather than wins attributed to individual players, his contributions have been integral to Oklahoma’s successes during his tenure. His progression from walk-on to scholarship player and key receiver reflects his development and impact on the field.
Oklahoma Sooners Highlights
Stoops’ collegiate career featured steady improvement and key performances, including multiple touchdowns in high-stakes games. His senior season marked career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, culminating in All-Big 12 recognition.
Other Wins & Performances
In high school, Stoops was a two-time first-team all-state selection and helped lead Norman North High School to the state championship game. His consistent production at both the high school and college levels highlights his competitive drive and skill.
Drake Stoops Family
Family Background and Football Lineage
Drake Stoops comes from a prominent football family. His father, Bob Stoops, is a former head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners, and his uncles Mark and Mike Stoops have also been involved in collegiate football coaching. This lineage has influenced Drake’s football career and provided a strong foundation for his development as a player.
Personal Life
Details about Drake Stoops’ personal life, including marital status and residence, are private. He has not publicly disclosed information about a spouse or children.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, Drake Stoops aims to solidify his position within the Los Angeles Rams organization. After signing a reserve/future contract, he continues to work toward earning a spot on the active roster. His familiarity with professional-level competition and versatility as a receiver and return specialist provide a foundation for potential contributions. The 2025 season will be critical for Stoops to demonstrate his value and secure a more permanent role on the team.