Oklahoma safety Marcus Wimberly has announced his transfer to the Utah Utes, marking the first significant addition during the tenure of head coach Morgan Scalley. The announcement came on Tuesday morning, allowing Utah to make its presence felt in the transfer portal.
Wimberly, a former four-star recruit, initially chose Oklahoma over other notable programs, including Utah, Michigan, Ole Miss, Oregon, and Tennessee, when he graduated high school. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 185 pounds, he brings considerable potential to the Utes’ defense. His freshman season with the Sooners saw him redshirt, and he did not see any game action due to shoulder surgery.
The addition of Wimberly is particularly timely for Utah, as it addresses a gap left by the transfer of starter Tao Johnson. With the Utes looking to strengthen their safety position, Wimberly is expected to compete for significant playing time in Salt Lake City.
In addition to Wimberly, Utah is set to welcome back Rabbit Evans and Nate Ritchie, both of whom suffered season-ending injuries last year, as well as Jackson Bennee. With their return, Utah aims to enhance its defensive lineup for the upcoming season, creating a more robust safety room.
The transition period for Wimberly is anticipated to be smooth, as he brings experience and skill to a team that is preparing for a competitive season. His journey from Oklahoma to Utah reflects the increasing trend of athletes seeking opportunities that align with their career goals and aspirations.
As the Utes continue to build their roster, Wimberly’s commitment is a significant step in solidifying their defensive strategy and depth for the future.