Curtis Lofton steps down as OU football general manager after less than a year in role

Posted by author January 16, 2025 Football

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NORMAN — Curtis Lofton is stepping down as Oklahoma football general manager, he announced Thursday, after less than a year in the role.

Lofton wrote in a Facebook post his last day will be Feb. 1 and he’s planning to pursue ministry.

“I want to take this moment to thank Athletic Director Joe Castiglione, President Joe Harroz and Head Coach Brent Venables for their unwavering support, leadership and guidance,” Lofton wrote. “They’ve been instrumental in shaping my journey, and I am forever grateful for their influence in my life.”

Lofton was officially named OU’s general manager in June, helping lead the Sooners into a new era of college athletics.

The Sooners’ former assistant general manager, Chuck Lillie, left to become West Virginia’s general manager on Jan. 3.

OU announced a new football recruiting structure in July, which included Lillie, Lofton and a partnership with former Philadelphia Eagles Vice President of Football Administration Jake Rosenberg.

OU also announced a partnership with former AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson in December, rounding out “a more expansive general manager function,” Castiglione said. Stephenson is serving as executive adviser to Harroz and Castiglione without a salary.

“It’s not about the result; it’s about the process — the journey,” Lofton wrote. “Showing up every single day, with discipline and commitment — even when it’s hard, even when no one’s watching. But that commitment can only happen when you’re doing something you love.

“In saying that, I have decided to step away from being the General Manager at OU.”

Prior to being named the Sooners’ GM, Lofton was the program’s Director of SOUL Mission, serving as a mentor, role model and advocate for OU football players. Lofton was a standout linebacker at OU from 2005-07.

Lofton also enjoyed an eight-year pro career with the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Oakland Raiders.

OU finished with a 6-7 record and a loss to Navy in the Armed Forces Bowl in 2024.

The program is in the midst of a defensive coordinator search and a restructuring of its front office.