STILLWATER — The Cowboys’ recruiting efforts have been scorching hot this summer and just intensified even more.
On Thursday, Oklahoma State secured its top defensive commitment for the 2025 class when Michael Riles announced his decision to join the Cowboys via a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Riles, a four-star defensive lineman from Port Arthur, Texas, is recognized for his edge-rushing capabilities. He is ranked No. 293 in the 2025 class by ESPN and No. 335 by 247Sports, placing him as the 29th-ranked defensive lineman and the 38th-ranked player in Texas.
Riles’ recruitment gained traction last summer, and he ultimately selected OSU over offers from Texas A&M, Texas, Florida, TCU, Nebraska, and others. Oklahoma State extended an offer to the 6-foot-5, 235-pound lineman in September 2023, and he made an official visit in April.
According to 247Sports’ McClain Baxley, the connections Riles formed with defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo and defensive line coach Paul Randolph were crucial in his decision.
Nardo’s recruiting prowess has brought in four defensive players in June alone. Riles joins Midway linebacker Donovan Jones, McKinney defensive lineman Jordan Covington, and Lake Highlands safety Ayden Webb.
With Riles’ commitment, Oklahoma State’s 2025 recruiting class now ranks 23rd nationally and 3rd in the Big 12, according to 247Sports, trailing only TCU and Arizona State. Mike Gundy hasn’t achieved a top-25 class in a decade, but he and his staff are making significant progress.
