Ronnell Lewis practices, but wait for fate continues

CAMPUS CORNER — Just back from the practice fields, where OU wrapped up its first 2011 workout in the shadows of Owen Field.

Everyone, of course, wanted to know about the status of DE Ronnell Lewis. Bob Stoops said he practiced, returning from the “personal matter” that sidelined him some last week. But there was nothing new about his ultimate fate regarding the junior’s academic standing.

Stoops is becoming increasingly agitated with the question as camp progresses. That’s kind of the way these things go with coaches, deep into August with still a few days or weeks until the opener. Stoops reminded reporters Monday he’d let us know when there was something to know. (But, on some level, he seems to understand we’ve got to ask.)

“He still is working on some family matters,” Stoops said. “But he did practice today and looked good. We’ll see where that goes. Like I said, whenever anything’s definitive, I will say so.”

Lewis has been in limbo throughout camp, though the details are murky. (Since arriving Friday, I’ve literally heard a half-dozen versions of why no definitive word has come down. And that’s not to mention the personal stuff that popped up last week.)

Asked later if he wanted to address that personal/family deal in any way, Stoops said he wouldn’t wade into the rumors and suggested reporters shouldn’t, either.

“I know you have to chase leads,” he said, “but a lot of what you chase is inaccurate.”

Such is the hunt for truth(s).

What we can say: The fact Lewis practiced would have to be considered a positive, relative to last week.

Stoops said the same principle applies to WR Trey Metoyer and DTs Jordan Phillips and Jordan Wade – all Clearinghouse cases.

“When I have definitive word on anybody, I will be definitive,” he said. “I keep saying that. On all of these guys, for the last time, when I know something, when it’s finished and done, I will say so. So obviously none of them are just yet.”

I asked later if any of this was weighing on Lewis, wondering what his status would be throughout August.

“Oh, I’m sure it has,” Stoops said.

That’s not even considering whatever he’s dealing with personally. And, specifically, I wondered if that would affect his performance in preparing for a season that’s less than two weeks away.

“I’m not going to comment on his personal business,” Stoops said. “Anytime anyone has anything to deal with personally, it’s always difficult.”