Darkhorses to watch…

Spring standouts who could make a surprise impact this season:

Linebackers Jaydan Bird, Ronnell Lewis, Tom Wort

If they don’t redshirt, their play will be limited on defense. But all three freshmen could make huge impacts on special teams, where the Sooners were weak last season.

Linebacker J.R. Bryant

After notching a game-high six tackles and returning a fumble for a score in the Red-White game, Bryant proved he’s become a viable backup for Clayton on the strong side.

Safety Emmanuel Jones

Tulsa native who walked on from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M started Saturday in place of injured free safety Quinton Carter. Jones has a chance to be OU’s third safety behind Carter and Sam Proctor.

Center Brian Lepak

Walk-on transfer from Colorado State has been a pleasant surprise and should be part of the regular offensive line rotation, especially now that Jason Hannan decided to transfer.

By Jake Trotter