Breaking down Oklahoma's linebackers,
NORMAN — Oklahoma returns Kenneth Murray at l i nebacker but has plenty of other questions t here, especially after Caleb Kelly's injury in the spring. Here's a look at OU's outlook, both this season and beyond, at linebacker:
Starters
Kenneth Murray (Jr., 6-2, 243) DaShaun White (So., 6-0, 224) Jon-Michael Terry (RJr., 6-3, 233)
Key backups
Brian Asamoah (RFr., 6-1, 225) Nik Bonitto (RFr., 6-3, 230) Levi Draper (RSo., 6-1, 245) Mark Jackson Jr. (Sr., 6-1, 238) Ryan Jones (RSo., 6-2, 236) Bryan Mead (RJr., 6-2, 229) Jalen Redmond (RFr., 6-3, 264) David Ugwoegbu (Fr., 6-4, 232)
Scouting ahead
This season: The large group of backups is indicative of the uncertainty that exists at linebacker behind Murray and White, who look like obvious starters. White drew rave reviews a year ago and continues to do so this season as he figures to step in at one
of the inside spots with Murray. Murray has compiled big numbers the last two seasons — 233 tackles — but at times he's given up big plays. In Alex Grinch's defense, Murray's numbers might dip this season even if he winds up being a much better player overall. The third spot — on the outside — is the biggest question mark. With Jalen Redmond's recent return to being full-go — and the uncertainty over whether he'll play linebacker or defensive end — Terry is the starter there for now, but that could change.
The future: Only Jackson is a senior, so there'll be plenty returning here in 2020 — plus the likely return of Kelly, who is expected to redshirt this season. Ugwoegbu was a late signee and Grinch's lone signee of the 2019 class, and figures to get a chance to compete quickly. The Sooners already have two linebacker commitments in the 2020 class — McGuinness' Brynden Walker and Edgerrin Cooper of Covington, Louisiana.