OU's Montgomery Leaving Sooners For NFL

University of Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops confirmed Tuesday that Jerry Montgomery has agreed in principle to accept an NFL coaching position pending the execution of a signed contract. “This is a rare opportunity for Jerry and his family to join one of the finest organizations in the National Football League,” Stoops said. “I appreciate the positive impact that Jerry has made with our defensive line the past two seasons, as well as his many other contributions to Oklahoma Football. The NFL is getting a fine man and a very talented football coach. I support Jerry's decision to further his career goals working with one of the most stable and successful franchises in pro football.

“The University of Oklahoma continues to be an attractive destination for some of the nation's elite coaches and players,” Stoops continued. “I have already begun the search process to bring another talented defensive line coach into our program. On behalf of our entire staff, we wish Jerry, Natalie and their family the very best.”

Montgomery joined the Sooners in 2013 and expressed his gratitude to Stoops and the University of Oklahoma.

“My family will be forever grateful to Coach Stoops for providing me with the privilege of learning from him and the rest of his staff at the University of Oklahoma,” Montgomery said. “The past two years have been invaluable helping me grow personally and professionally. It's truly been an honor to coach such a wonderful group of student-athletes at OU, and I'll continue to follow their progress closely.

“I have been offered an unbelievable opportunity to pursue my dream of coaching in the National Football League,” he continued. “There are very few jobs that I would have even considered. Our family has been blessed to have represented the University of Oklahoma, and we will always have a great appreciation for our time working for Coach Stoops and the Sooners.”