Top Defensive Lineman Commits to Oklahoma State Over Powerhouse Programs

STILLWATER, Okla. — Oklahoma State secures prominent defensive recruit

Four-star defensive lineman Michael Riles has committed to Oklahoma State, choosing the Cowboys over offers from Florida, Nebraska, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and UCF.

Riles, ranked as the No. 29 DL in the 2025 recruiting class and No. 38 prospect from Texas, becomes the 16th commit for Oklahoma State in the 2025 recruiting cycle.

Hailing from Port Arthur, Texas, Riles was courted by 17 schools, including several Power 4 teams. However, the strong rapport he developed with defensive line coach Paul Randolph and defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo proved pivotal in his decision.

“Coach Randolph and coach Nardo are my guys,” Riles told 247Sports in May. “Just being around them and the energy they give is great.”

Riles visited Stillwater officially in April with his mother and was impressed by Randolph’s coaching style and energy.

“I just wanted to see if I can get a feel,” Riles told GoPokes247. “I loved Coach Randolph. He’s got a great energy. It’s just the way he is. His energy compared to other coaches is crazy. Coach (Bryan) Nardo is just a great coach all around. I like how he breaks things down for you. I actually can see myself playing at Oklahoma State.”

Randolph’s coaching pedigree, which includes mentoring players like Aaron Donald, resonated deeply with Riles. His mother was equally impressed with the academic and football offerings at Oklahoma State.

“With Riles’ commitment, Oklahoma State now has the No. 23 recruiting class and No. 3 class in the Big 12 behind TCU and Arizona State. Riles is the third defensive prospect to commit to Oklahoma State this week, joining three-star linebacker Donovan Jones from Waco and three-star safety Ayden Webb from Dallas. He is the fourth defensive commit this month and seventh overall to commit to Oklahoma State in June.”