OU football: Bob Stoops would like interaction with players during summer

“Even more importantly, perhaps, than working with them is that ability to be around them,” Kruger said in June. “Especially with the new guys coming in, to establish that relationship and maintain that contact consistency throughout the summer.”

He spent time with his newcomers, got to know them and could keep an eye on them. Scrimmages are kept more structured, as opposed to pickup games.

Football coach Bob Stoops, on the other hand, remains barred from working with his team during the summer months. Workouts with the strength staff are voluntary, and football activities like 7-on-7 drills and passing trees are organized by the players themselves.

As a result, Stoops was unable to answer questions at Big 12 Media Days regarding any progress made by his young receivers, who the Sooners will likely be forced to rely on after the suspensions of three returning starters.

“We're going to have to see, because we're not able to work with the players in the summer,” Stoops said. “And a lot of these guys are new; some of the young high school receivers we have in, and then with the addition of some junior-college guys.”

Running back Dominique Whaley, who was starting and excelling last season before a severe ankle injury, has been cleared and is running. But Stoops hasn't been able to keep close tabs on his recovery.

“He's out there running and training and I'm not able to work with him,” Stoops said. “So it's a little bit tough.”