4-Star DE Prospect Ron Tatum III Flips Commitment from Texas to Oklahoma

Oklahoma stole a top prospect away from its biggest rival as Ron Tatum III flipped his commitment from Texas. 

The defensive end announced his decision on Twitter:

According to Scout.com, the 4-star is the No. 155 player in the 2018 class and No. 17 at his position.

Tatum initially committed to Texas in April, saying the school "felt like it was a great fit," EJ Holland of 247Sports.

However, the Oklahoma City native changed his mind and decided to stay local.

The 6'4 ½", 269-pounder has the size and strength necessary to make an immediate impact with the Sooners as soon as he steps onto campus. With good quickness and athleticism, Tatum has nearly as much upside as anyone at his position.

Perhaps just as importantly, this represents the first commitment for Lincoln Riley, who took over as head coach for Oklahoma when Bob Stoops suddenly retired earlier this month.

The 33-year-old coach expressed his excitement on Twitter:

With top prospects like Brey Walker and T.J. Pledger already committed for 2018, the post-Stoops era looks bright for the Sooners.