As Oklahoma Sooners fans, we've seen our fair share of standout linebackers, but few have captured our attention like Jaren Kanak. Entering his junior season, Kanak is on a trajectory that mirrors that of Danny Stutsman, who himself was in a similar position not too long ago. Both players faced the challenges of transitioning from promising young talents to reliable defensive anchors, and Kanak's journey suggests he's on the right path to greatness.
Kanak's freshman and sophomore seasons laid the foundation for what could be a breakout junior year. In 2022, he played in all 13 games, primarily on special teams and as a backup linebacker. Despite limited playing time, he made his presence felt with 24 tackles, 1.0 tackles for loss, two quarterback hurries, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His 10-tackle performance against Nebraska, where he also forced and recovered a fumble, was an early indication of his potential.
The 2023 season was Kanak's opportunity to step into a larger role, and he did not disappoint. Playing in all 13 games with nine starts in the season's first nine games, he ranked fourth on the team with 62 total tackles, including 6.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, a forced fumble, two pass breakups, and five quarterback hurries. His 13-tackle game against Texas was a standout performance, showing his ability to rise to the occasion in big moments. He consistently made plays throughout the season, whether it was his sack and forced fumble against Tulsa or his two quarterback hurries against UCF.
The parallels between Kanak and Stutsman are striking. Like Stutsman, Kanak has shown flashes of brilliance early in his career. Stutsman, who also faced the pressure of stepping into a more prominent role as a junior, has since developed into a key leader on the Sooners' defense. Kanak, with his natural athleticism, football IQ, and relentless work ethic, is poised to follow a similar path.
What sets Kanak apart is his versatility and knack for making plays when it matters most. Whether he's pressuring the quarterback, making a crucial tackle for loss, or dropping back in coverage, Kanak has proven he can do it all. This well-rounded skill set is exactly what the Sooners need as they transition to the SEC, where defensive depth and versatility will be paramount.
Kanak's development is also a testament to the coaching staff's ability to identify and nurture talent. His growth from a special teams contributor to a key defensive player in just two seasons is a sign that he's receiving the right guidance and support. With another offseason to refine his skills and build on his experience, Kanak is set to take the next step in his career.
As we look ahead to the 2024 season, there's every reason to be optimistic about Jaren Kanak's future. He's already proven he can handle the pressure, and with continued hard work, he has the potential to become one of the top linebackers in the SEC. Just as Danny Stutsman has become a leader and playmaker for the Sooners, Kanak is on the right path to carve out his own legacy in Norman.
The journey is far from over, but if his freshman and sophomore seasons are any indication, Jaren Kanak is well on his way to becoming a cornerstone of the Oklahoma defense for years to come.