Will there be any movement among OU's assistant football coaches this offseason?
It's not likely, although there were some interesting possibilities involving OU assistants.
Advertisement
Co-offensive coordinator Kevin Sumlin turned down an opportunity to direct Miami's offense, preferring to remain at OU. Sumlin would have gained the control to put his stamp on an offense with the Hurricanes. But that could come in Norman, should Kevin Wilson land a head coaching job.
Defensive coordinator Brent Venables got a look from Minnesota, which went with Mack Brown disciple Tim Brewster. Tulsa, had Todd Graham not returned from Rice, might have turned to a short list that included Venables.
Are there any health concerns before spring practice?
A few players have undergone minor surgeries, most of the "clean-up” variety, yet none were considered serious. Safety Darien Williams won't be ready for spring after knee surgery, but he should be full speed by August. Wide receiver Malcolm Kelly, tight end Jermaine Gresham and linebacker Curtis Lofton are all expected to participate in spring drills.
Kelly, who was injured in the Fiesta Bowl, had surgery to repair a cartilage tear.
What's new in recruiting?
With just over two weeks until signing day, the Sooners have but a few scholarships to give and are in play on some top prospects.
Among them was the only official visitor on campus over the weekend: offensive lineman Donald Stephenson of Blue Springs, Mo. The Sooners have commitments from three offensive linemen with room for one, possibly two, more. Stephenson is a strong possibility to wind up in Norman. After missing a visit to OU last week because of the weather, he skipped an opportunity to visit Michigan to reschedule a weekend with the Sooners.
What's up with Adrian Peterson, now that his decision to jump to the NFL is final?
Peterson signed with agent Ben Dogra, part of the Creative Artists Agency team that includes Tom Condon.
Together, Dogra and Condon form what many consider the most powerful agent duo in college football. And that tag is reflected in who they're representing in this draft class. Along with Peterson, Creative Artists has signed Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, Texas cornerback and Thorpe Award winner Aaron Ross and Mississippi linebacker and Butkus Award winner Patrick Willis, among others.
Peterson is preparing himself for the NFL Combine in Tempe, Ariz., at the renowned Athletes' Performance training facility.
By John Helsley
