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Oklahoma football: Dashaun White drafted by the Michigan Panthers in USFL Draft

By Brandon Self

Nov 27, 2021; Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker DaShaun White (23) during the third quarter against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium. Oklahoma State Cowboys won 37-33. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2021; Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker DaShaun White (23) during the third quarter against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium. Oklahoma State Cowboys won 37-33. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Former Sooner Cheetah linebacker DaShaun White was drafted by the USFL’s Michigan Panthers in the USFL College Draft. White was selected with the 32nd overall pick in the USFL Draft. One of the Oklahoma football program’s most respected players gets the rare opportunity to continue his career on the professional level.

DaShaun White came to Norman in 2018 as a 4-star recruit from North Richland Hills, Texas. He spent five years in Norman, playing in a staggering 63 games, starting in 49. He was a consistent anchor for the Sooners’ defense during his time in the Crimson and Cream. White ended his career totaling 259 total tackles, including 19.5 TFLs, 5.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions. he was named Honorable Mention All-Big 12 following the 2022 football season. DaShaun leaves Norman being recognized as one of the Oklahoma football program’s most respected and seasoned veteran players in program history.

The Michigan Panthers selected White with the 32nd overall pick. He will get to Michigan and immediately make an impact on the Panthers roster. I doubt he will spend much time in the USFL. I see White showcasing his talent in the USFL for a season or two and then moving on to an NFL franchise.

The USFL is in its second season of rebirth. Initially developed in the ’80s, the USFL was originally seen as a competitor to the NFL. Once those ideas collapsed (because nothing competes with the NFL), the league went under following its first attempt. In 2022, the USFL made a comeback as a Spring football league. It has sustained life as a Spring ball league for 2 seasons now. With the arrival of the much-applauded and successful XFL, the USFL now has a Spring competitor.

The quality of on-field football in the USFL is good. I’ve kept up with the Spring league this year, and I must say, the product is exciting and competitive. The Michigan Panthers, who drafted White, are one of the league’s better-run franchises. The Panthers play their home games at Ford Field in Detroit, where the NFL’s Detroit Lions play their games in the Fall.

DaShaun White is in a good place. I’m sure he was disappointed to not hear his name called in the NFL Draft in April. He may have felt even more disappointment when he was not given a phone call to try out as an NFL minicamp invitee. However, he should be excited, and I know he will be enthusiastic when he plays for the Panthers. DaShaun has high character and an immense work ethic. He will quickly elevate himself into a leadership role on the Panthers team. He will also continue to do what he has done for his entire career… produce on the football field.

NORMAN, OK – SEPTEMBER 4: Linebacker DaShaun White #23 of the Oklahoma Sooners prepares for a game against the Tulane Green Wave at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 4, 2021 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma won 40-35. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images)
NORMAN, OK – SEPTEMBER 4: Linebacker DaShaun White #23 of the Oklahoma Sooners prepares for a game against the Tulane Green Wave at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 4, 2021 in Norman, Oklahoma. Oklahoma won 40-35. (Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images) /

We wish DaShaun White good luck in Michigan. He gives all fans of Oklahoma a new USFL team to root for. Be sure and check him out for the Michigan Panthers; he will only be there in the blink of an eye.

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