Oklahoma State has been one of the biggest winners in the transfer portal during this spring cycle, but on Monday, the Pokes have a tough pill to swallow with their latest portal entry.
According to multiple sources, Cowboys’ defensive lineman Justin Kirkland has entered the transfer portal and will look for a new opportunity after serving a key role over the last two seasons.
Kirkland transferred to OSU from Utah Tech ahead of the 2023 season and immediately became a contributor for Oklahoma State. He played in all 26 games of his tenure in Stillwater and accumulated 40 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and one sack in that time.
Listed at 6-foot-3, 330 pounds, Kirkland was gearing up for his biggest season yet after turning heads with his performance this spring, but will now provide his services to another program in 2025.
Oklahoma State has been active in supplementing its defense through the transfer portal with this cycle, and has landed commitments from a pair of interior defensive lineman already, with Vanderbilt transfer De’Marion Thomas and Virginia transfer Michael Diatta already in the boat.
It’s unclear whether their additions played a role in Kirkland’s decision or if the Pokes were already aware of his impending departure.
Oklahoma State will begin its 2025 season with a home tilt against UT Martin on August 28 before hitting the road to take on Oregon in Week 2.
