Oklahoma Sooners defensive coordinator Zac Alley has the funniest quote on one of his players you will hear

The Oklahoma Sooners' elite defense in 2024 has a great mix of both young and older guys that compete. Sure, you don't want to be too young, because then there is no experience, but sometimes the younger guys are more talented. The Sooners have that perfect blend of young guys paired with veteran leadership.

And let me tell you, no position group has more veteran leadership on the defense than the secondary, which has two guys who will likely not be in town next season due to either not having eligibility or going to the NFL.

In the secondary is safety Billy Bowman, an NFL-caliber safety who could go on either day one or two of the 2025 NFL Draft, and cornerback Woodi Washington, who also has a chance to get drafted, as he's playing in his fifth season of college football.

Washington has seen it all.

Throughout his collegiate career with the Sooners, Washington has shown significant growth and leadership and has been a consistent starter. His decision to return for the 2024 season, was one of the more important decisions this defense saw this offseason, as he is going to be crucial, especially during SEC play.

While he does have some pretty good stats that are worth noting, his presence on the field is not just about the numbers; it's about the impact he has on the game, specifically as a veteran and a guy who can be sticky in coverage.

After having a pretty good game on Saturday against Tulane with Kendal Dolby out, his coach couldn't help but compliment him when talking about why he's so polished. Well, I guess you can call it a compliment.

“He’s played more years than I’ve been alive," first-time defensive coordinator Zac Alley said.

Washington has a ton of experience in football, and Alley, while he does too, is still fairly young as he's just in his early 30s. Washington is a key, pivotal part of this team, and will be the entire year. He's then going to hand that over to the younger guys in his room, and that will translate as well. The future of the defense is in good hands with Washington showing the younger guys the ropes.

Related: Oklahoma Sooners defensive coordinator Zac Alley knows the future of the defense is in good hands