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The business of college football continues to evolve, and Oklahoma could eventually become part of the growing list of programs adding a corporate logo to its football uniforms.
With schools searching for new revenue streams to help offset the costs of NIL, revenue sharing and rising athletic department expenses, jersey patch sponsorships have quickly become one of the sports newest frontiers.
On Tuesday, two of college footballs biggest brands made major moves in that space.
Notre Dame announced a partnership with financial services company SoFi, while Ohio State reached a sponsorship agreement with JPMorgan Chase.
The reported deals are among the most lucrative in college athletics and further signal that corporate patches on uniforms are becoming increasingly common.
Could Oklahoma be next? Sooners Athletic Director Roger Denny said the university is evaluating the possibility, but stressed there is no desire to make a quick decision simply because other schools are doing it.
Its certainly something were looking into, but were being deliberate, Denny told Toby Rowland.
It has to be the right deal with the right partner.
That measured approach reflects the value Oklahoma places on one of the most recognizable brands in college football.
The Sooners traditional crimson-and-cream uniforms have remained largely unchanged for decades, making any addition to the jersey a significant branding decision.
The financial incentive is obvious.
Schools across the country are looking for additional revenue as athletic departments adjust to the new economics of college sports.
Jersey sponsorships offer another premium advertising opportunity without affecting ticket prices or media rights.
Oklahoma has already embraced new commercial partnerships in other areas.
The Big 12 recently announced a conference-wide agreement with Monster Energy that places the companys branding across league football and basketball events, illustrating how conferences and universities are continuing to expand sponsorship opportunities.
Whether Oklahoma ultimately adds a corporate patch to its football uniforms this season remains an open question, but Dennys comments indicate the conversation is active behind the scenes.
If the Sooners decide to move forward, the priority wont simply be maximizing revenue; it will be finding a partner that aligns with the universitys brand and tradition.