Former OU, Southmoore player Austin Haywood plans to transfer to Central Arkansas

With both James Hanna and Trent Ratterree seniors, Haywood was expected to be the Sooners' starting tight end in 2012 as a junior.

Haywood's father, Paul, said in October that his son's decision was due at least in part to former offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson leaving to be Indiana's head coach. A disagreement with position coach Bruce Kittle also reportedly hastened the departure.

But coach Bob Stoops said in late November that Haywood was trying to return to the team.

“We'll see if he's successful or not,” Stoops said then. “He has a ways to go.

“It's doing what you're supposed to be doing off the field, attending class, tutor (sessions), being on time, attending your weight workouts, completing them the proper way, showing up at practice, working hard with a good attitude. It's not that hard. Do what you're supposed to do and meet all your obligations.”

Haywood, who played in high school at Anadarko through his junior year and transferred to Southmoore for his senior season, was an Oklahoman All-State tight end in 2009. Before leaving the team in 2011, he had six receptions for 42 yards, including a 19-yard reception against Texas.

Because Central Arkansas is a Football Championship Subdivision school, Haywood can transfer from Oklahoma and play immediately.