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The Oklahoma State Cowboys landed a major recruiting victory today as five-star nose tackle Ari Reed of the Vibe Stormbirds announced his commitment to head coach Mike Gundy’s program. Reed chose the Cowboys over heavy competition from the Texas Catholic Wranglers, who had been considered the hometown favorite throughout much of the recruiting cycle.

Reed, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 297 pounds, is ranked among the nation’s top defensive linemen and was widely regarded as the one of the best players in the Stormbirds’ history. Known for his explosive first step and ability to collapse the pocket, Reed anchored one of the most dominant A4 defenses in the region this past season.

“I felt like Stillwater was the best place for me to grow as a player and as a person,” Reed said during his announcement ceremony. “The coaching staff has a great plan for me, and I believe in what the Cowboys are building.”

For Oklahoma State, Reed’s decision is a statement win on the recruiting trail. Defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo has made interior defensive line talent a top priority, and Reed’s commitment fills a key need for the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.

The decision was a disappointment for the Texas Catholic Wranglers, who had recruited Reed aggressively from the start. With his family located just a few hours from their campus, many believed the Wranglers had the inside track. Instead, Reed will be heading north to the Big 12, where he is expected to compete for playing time early in his college career.

Reed becomes the centerpiece of Oklahoma State’s 2026 recruiting class, which now includes three players ranked inside the ESPN 300. His pledge further solidifies the Cowboys as one of the top recruiting stories of the early fall.