Brent Venables addressed the injuries that have significantly impacted Oklahoma’s wide receiver corps this season, providing more details on the status of key players Nic Anderson, Jalil Farooq, Jayden Gibson, Andrel Anthony, and Deion Burks. These five receivers were expected to be the team’s top contributors but have faced various injuries, prompting concerns about their futures this season and beyond.
During his weekly radio show, Venables expressed optimism, stating, “I do expect a couple of guys to be back for sure.” He emphasized that these players are committed to Oklahoma and eager to return to the field. Last season, this group combined for 171 receptions, 2,925 yards, and 25 touchdowns, but this year they have collectively managed only 28 catches for 252 yards and three touchdowns, largely due to Burks’ limited appearances. Despite being the leading receiver, Burks has missed the last three games due to a soft-tissue injury.
Gibson is out for the season with a torn patellar tendon, while Farooq is expected to miss several more weeks after breaking his foot in the season opener. Anderson, who has struggled with a quad strain, and Anthony, recovering from an ACL tear, could potentially return before the season ends. Venables remains hopeful that the team will regain some of its top talent as they look to improve their struggling offense. He noted that the players are eager to get back on the field and contribute, underscoring their passion for the game.
