Ricky DeBerry Commits to Oklahoma: What Impact Will 4-Star Defender Make?

Oklahoma picked up its highest-rated commitment to date when 4-star linebacker Ricky DeBerry announced his commitment to play for the Sooners on Friday, according to Adam Friedman of Rivals.com.

"

Huge pick up for #OU. #Rivals250 LB Ricky DeBerry @TheFranchize__ has committed to #Oklahoma http://t.co/xilVaGBrTT pic.twitter.com/OR9Ew1SJoP

— Adam Friedman (@RivalsFriedman) December 19, 2014"

The 6’3”, 240-pound Virginia native—who ranks as the nation’s seventh-best outside linebacker prospect and the No. 71 player overall in the 2015 class—selected the Sooners over offers from Alabama, Michigan State, Ohio State, Tennessee and Texas A&M, among others.

But what is it about DeBerry that should have Bob Stoops and his staff giddy over landing the U.S. Army All-American?

Chief among the traits that made him such a coveted recruit are his versatility and the physicality with which he plays the game.

DeBerry has the size and the speed to play multiple positions in Stoops’ defense.

Oklahoma lists a 3-4 defensive scheme as its base look, and DeBerry is a prime candidate to play one of the two outside spots in that set.

As noted by James Hale of OUInsider (subscription required), DeBerry has clocked a time of 4.58 seconds in the 40-yard dash, which highlights the athleticism he is bringing to Norman.

He also played defensive end in high school, which should serve him well if he continues to add mass and strength to his frame.

The Sooners made landing DeBerry a priority early in the process, and the relationship Stoops built with DeBerry and his family played a huge role in helping Oklahoma land the No. 2 prospect from the state of Virginia.

His father, Ricky DeBerry Sr., told Taylor Hamm of GigEm247 (subscription required) that Oklahoma made a lasting impression in its recruitment of his son:

"

Oklahoma has been, wow, it’s hard to even describe it. No matter where we have visited, no matter where we have gone, no matter when we reach out to them, no matter what has taken place, they’ve always been there. When you call, they respond. When you tweet, they respond. When you email, they respond. It’s not two or three days later either. It’s like immediately.

"

Brett Deering/Getty Images

DeBerry becomes Oklahoma’s first commitment at linebacker, which is a huge need for the Sooners in the 2015 cycle.

According to Ourlads, Stoops will lose two linebackers to graduation, with another three players slated to enter their senior seasons in 2015. Included in that group is All-American linebacker Eric Striker, who could test the NFL draft waters in the offseason.

Given DeBerry’s size and skill set, he is a prime candidate to see the field early upon arriving in Norman. 

Factoring in the need at linebacker and DeBerry’s immense potential, his commitment gives Stoops his biggest victory to date on the recruiting trail in the 2015 cycle.

Sanjay Kirpalani is a National Recruiting Analyst for Bleacher Report. Unless otherwise noted, all recruiting information courtesy of 247Sports.

Follow @SanjayKirpalani