Gilmer Lewis dies at age 71: Lewis, an All-Big Seven tackle who was captain of the 1959 Oklahoma football team, died Monday. He was 71. "Gilmer Lewis was one of those special guys," said Jakie Sandifer, a teammate of Lewis' in 1957-58. "Driving by the stadium yesterday, I thought of Gilmer, what a good guy he was. Just a damn good guy. He was a cut above. "Quiet guy. Minded his own business. Hell of a football player." Lewis was born and raised in Wichita Falls, Texas. He played for the Sooners from 1957-59 and was one of the players infamously taken ill after eating at Chicago's Chez Paree club two nights before the 1959 Northwestern game. Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday in the Rose Chapel of Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. A reception will follow the funeral. (The Oklaohman)
Lehman, Moore among those signed by Las Vegas UFL franchise: The United Football League (UFL) announced today the signing of 19 players for its Las Vegas franchise including quarterback Tim Rattay and linebackers Teddy Lehman (Sooners LB 2000-03) and Brandon Moore (LB 1997-01). The United Football League previously announced the signing of former NFL first-round draft pick JP Losman to the Las Vegas franchise. There will be more players for the Las Vegas franchise announced over the next few weeks. "The players who have signed with the Las Vegas franchise thus far are a top-notch line-up of former NFL veterans and skilled players who have the experience to produce on the field," said Las Vegas Head Coach Jim Fassel. "I am anxious to complete my roster and begin training camp in September." (PR Newswire)
Lee Roy Selmon set to be Tampa Bay Buccaneers' first Ring of Honor inductee: When Lee Roy Selmon was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1995 it was arguably one of his greatest honors and achievements. On Monday, Selmon was humbled by an honor that might rival his place in Canton, OH. The Buccaneers held a press conference Monday to announce the franchise's plans to induct Selmon into the team's Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium when the Bucs host the Green Bay Packers on Nov. 8. "This is a very exciting day for us, and a long time coming," said Bucs co-chairman Bryan Glazer. "When we bought the team in 1995, before we even went to a Buccaneer game, we didn't know much. But we were told we had to go to Canton, Ohio and represent the team at the induction ceremonies for the Hall of Fame and Lee Roy Selmon. It was a great beginning to our 15 years here, and I'm very proud to be here talking about this, the first inductee into the Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium. We've very pleased that person is going to be Lee Roy Selmon." (PewterReport.com)
Minnesota signs OT Phill Loadholt: The Vikings announced they have signed their second-round pick, OT Phil Loadholt, to a contract. Terms of the deal were not announced. Loadholt, the 54th pick in the draft, will have every chance to win the starting ORT job over Ryan Cook, last year's starter there. (Pro Football Weekly)
Former Sooner All-American Rick Bryan passes away: Former University of Oklahoma All-American Rick Bryan has died, according to Barry Switzer, the man who coached him at OU in the 1980s. Switzer said this morning that Bryan, 47, died overnight. Switzer, who said Bryan died of congestive heart failure, was on the way to be with the family today. Bryan lived in Coweta, where he attended high school. His son, Mike, is a linebacker on the University of Tulsa football team and his daughter, Jenni, averaged 21.2 points per game last season as a junior basketball player at Coweta. Rick Bryan was a two-time All-America defensive lineman for OU in 1982 and 1983. He set a record that still stands for most career tackles by a Sooner lineman. (Tulsa World)
Former Sooner Manuel Johnson signs with Dallas Cowboys: Former Oklahoma wide receiver Manuel Johnson has agreed to a four-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys, the Dallas Morning News reported on its Web site. Johnson, who finished his career at OU with 119 catches for 1,710 yards and 17 touchdowns, was a seventh-round pick by the Cowboys in April's NFL Draft. (The Oklahoman) DMN web site reports, Johnson will receive four-year deals with minimum base salaries worth $310,000 (2009), $395,000 (2010), $480,000 (2011) and $565,000 (2012).(Dallas Morning News)
Harris signs with Buffalo: Rookie Nic Harris has agreed to a contract with the Bills after Buffalo chose Harris in the 5th round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Harris, a defensive back at the University of Oklahoma is expected to make the transition to linebacker with the Bills. In 51 career games with the Sooners (37 starts), Harris recorded 233 tackles, good enough for 6th place all-time amongst OU defensive backs. (13WHAM) Terms of contract were not released. Details will be published when available.
Duke Robinson signs multi-year deal with Panthers: The Carolina Panthers have signed fifth-round pick Duke Robinson. The guard from Oklahoma inked a four-year deal Wednesday that includes a signing bonus of about $172,000. He's expected to provide needed depth on the offensive line after Carolina released Jeremy Bridges and lost Geoff Hangartner and Frank Omiyale in free agency. (SI/Associated Press)
Holieway arrested on complaint of shoplifting: Former University of Oklahoma quarterback Jamelle Holieway and a female companion were arrested Sunday afternoon on a complaint of shoplifting at a Wal-Mart Supercenter in McAlester. Holieway, 42, and Brandie Michelle Simpson, 33, were arrested by McAlester police on a complaint of petty larceny of merchandise with a value of $86.21, according a McAlester Police Department arrest report. Holieway and Simpson were issued tickets and booked into the McAlester city jail. But because they had outstanding warrants, a police spokeswoman said, they were taken to the Pittsburg County jail, where they posted bail and were released. (Tulsa World)
Jack Mitchell OU's first All-American QB dies at age 85: Jack Mitchell, the first OU quarterback to earn All-America honors, died Sunday in Sun City, Ariz., from cancer. He was 85. His death was confirmed by Kansas associate athletic director John Hadl. Mitchell coached at Kansas from 1958 to 1966 and left with an overall record of 44-42-5. His best teams were in 1960 (7-2-1), 1961 (7-3-1) and 1962 (6-3-1). At Oklahoma, Mitchell was named an All-American in 1948. Mitchell was a two-time all conference selection and still holds the NCAA Division I-A record for career punt return average with 23.6 yards per return from 1946-48. He was named MVP of OU’s 14-6 win in the 1949 Sugar Bowl against North Carolina. (Tulsa World)
Former OU captain Norman McNabb passed away: Norman McNabb, a decorated Marine who fought in World War II's Pacific theater and a co-captain on OU's 1950 national championship team, died Wednesday in Atlanta. He was 85. McNabb, who played guard for the Sooners, arrived at OU in 1946 as part of Jim Tatum's first recruiting class, made up primarily of war veterans who became known as the '49ers, the 1949 seniors who went 11-0 and helped establish the Oklahoma football dynasty. McNabb ended up playing five years for OU after receiving a hardship ruling and is one of the few players in college football history to play in five bowl games. (The Oklahoman)
Did you know? Norman McNabb scored Oklahoma's only points in a game against Army in 1946. McNabb recovered a fumble in the endzone in a 21-7 loss. (NY Times)
Former OU lineman Brandon Walker released by Houston Texans: Former Oklahoma offensive lineman Brandon Walker was released by the Houston Texans on Tuesday, two days after he was arrested by Norman police on charges of allegedly driving under the influence. To replace Walker on their roster, the Texans signed former Harvard running back Clifton Dawson. (The Oklahoman)
Brandon Walker suspected of driving under the influence: Former Oklahoma offensive lineman Brandon Walker was arrested early Sunday morning on a complaint of driving under the influence. Walker was detained about 2 a.m. Sunday at 211 W. Boyd St., Norman police spokeswoman Jennifer Newell said. Walker was later transferred to the Cleveland County Detention Center, Newell said. It is the second time in a week Walker has been arrested by Norman police. On May 10, Walker was served with a municipal warrant after failing to pay a citation for driving without proper registration or proof of insurance. (The Oklahoman)
Selmon honored for Community Service work: Stetson University College of Law honored football legend Lee Roy Selmon for his years of community service with its inaugural Tower Award during a scholarship gala on May 2. The Tower Award recognizes those who reached the pinnacle of their careers and have made outstanding contributions to the Tampa Bay community. "I am humbled to be selected as Stetson's first Tower Award recipient," said Selmon, the first Tampa Bay Buccaneer inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. "With all of the joys I have had in life, I did not get here alone. This award represents those very special people who help us to become the very best that we can be." The event was held to raise funds for law student scholarships. As the Tower Award recipient, Selmon also designated a portion of the proceeds to his preferred charity, the USF Foundation Partnership for Athletics. "I was the recipient of a student athletic scholarship at Oklahoma University, and I can attest that it made a big difference in my life," Selmon said. "Scholarships make a big difference in the lives of young people." Selmon has been recognized as NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Bucs' Rookie of the Year and the team's Most Valuable Player. He was named to the College Football Hall of Fame, the GTE Academic All-America Hall of Fame, and the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame. In 1999, the Crosstown Expressway was named in his honor. Selmon was a three-time All-American at the University of Oklahoma, where he devoted an average of 10 hours per week to volunteer projects. (PRN Newswire)
Former Sooner on Spike TV reality show: Moses Washington, an ex-track star at OU and a member of the 2000 national championship football team, will be participating on the Spike TV series "4th and Long," which will premier May 18 at 9 p.m. The show, which will be hosted by NFL Hall of Famer Michael Irvin, will chronicle the training of 12 players and each week a player will be cut. The last one standing will receive a tryout with the Cowboys at training camp. (The Oklahoman)
Watts has received over 620k from BCS to lobby congress: J.C. Watts is a lobbyist for the much-maligned Bowl Championship Series. The job -- which has paid Watts' firm $620,000 over the past five years -- involves defending the BCS against a flurry of politicians who want to tear down the quirky system for determining college football's national champion. Recently, this controversy has produced a congressional hearing, and even President Barack Obama has jumped into the fray, saying he would prefer a playoff to the current system. "My responsibilities are just to try to help the BCS navigate through this," Watts says. Watts thinks the problem is that politicians take on the BCS as legislators but end up forming their views through the prism of sports fans. "I'm a paid consultant," he says. "I'm in government affairs for [the BCS], no question, but if I wasn't, I'd like to think I would be responsible enough and equitable enough to say, 'OK, what works if this system wasn't in place?'" (More at Politico)
Bengals sign safety Roy Williams: After being cut by the Dallas Cowboys, former Sooner Roy Williams finally has found a new team. Williams' agent confirmed to the Cincinnati Enquirer on Wednesday that the Bengals have signed Williams. Terms have not been finalized. (The Oklahoman) I've been told its a 1-year contract.
Manny Johnson uninjured after Cowboys' practice facility collapse: Former Oklahoma receiver Manuel Johnson escaped injury Saturday when the Dallas Cowboys' indoor training facility collapsed during a severe thunderstorm in Irving, Texas. Johnson was a seventh-round draft pick by the Cowboys in the most recent NFL Draft. He said Sunday that he was working out at the facility when the accident occurred, but was uninjured. (SoonerSports.com)
Sooner great Tom Catlin to be enshined into Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame: Chris McSpadden, Bob Tway and Ted Owens join former Oklahoma football player Tom Catlin, All-Star pitcher Cal McLish and former Pittsburgh Steelers lineman Jon Kolb. McSpadden, Tway and Owens were recently voted in by the Jim Thorpe Association’s members, sportswriters and sportscasters, previous inductees and other Oklahoma professional athletes. The others were part of the original class voted in by the Hall of Fame’s Honors Committee. All of the inductees will be enshrined in the hall of fame in an Aug. 3 ceremony in Oklahoma City. Catlin, who won a national championship with the Sooners in 1950, and McSpadden both died within the past year and will be honored posthumously. (The Oklahoman)
Former Sooner Josh Norman gets first head coaching job: This isn't the situation former NFL and Oklahoma football player Josh Norman hoped would lead to his first head coaching position. He's still excited about the opportunity, though. Norman was named as the new head football coach at Community Christian School. He replaced Brooks Mosier, who died three weeks from cancer. Mosier was age 73. "What he did was take the reins and build young boys and make them men. He taught me so much," Norman said of Mosier. "He taught them more than just X's and O's. He taught them about life." (More at The Oklahoman)
Dallas Cowboys release safety and former Sooner R. Williams: The Dallas Cowboys released safety Roy Williams, according to the Dallas Morning News. The Cowboys former 2002 first round draft pick was named to the Pro Bowl from 2003 to 2007 and considered among the league's hardest hitters. Williams gained his reputation during his tenure at Oklahoma (1999-2001), best known for "The Play" during 2001's Red River Shootout.
Box, Balogun expected to play: Oklahoma middle linebacker Austin Box, who sustained a knee sprain against Oklahoma State on Nov. 29, is also back at practice. Brent Venables said that Box and the backup Mike Balogun would play against Florida. After practice Sunday, Coach Bob Stoops said Box's knee was "loosening up for him and he's moving around pretty well, really." (NY Times)
Former Sooner Clayton visits team: Ex-Sooner and current Baltimore Ravens wideout Mark Clayton made an impromptu appearance at OU's press conference Sunday morning at the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Clayton wished defensive coordinator Brent Venables and several Sooner players luck in the BCS National Championship before heading to Dolphin Stadium for Baltimore's NFL playoff game against Miami. The Ravens stayed at the Harbor Beach Marriott over the weekend, the same hotel where all the BCS National Championship press conferences were held. (The Oklahoman)
Sooner great Plato Andros dies: Plato Andros, who after fighting the Nazis in World War II became a 1946 football all-American at the University of Oklahoma, died Monday. He was 86. Andros was a guard for Jim Tatum's 1946 Sooners. He distinguished himself with a superb defensive performance against Army that season. The Cadets were one of college football's all-time greatest teams and hadn't lost in three years, but '45 Heisman Trophy winner Glenn Davis was held to 19 yards on 12 carries. Army broke out of a 7-7 halftime tie and won 21-7. Andros served four years with the Coast Guard. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Rose Hill Cemetery Chapel. Family will receive friends at Norman's Primrose Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday. (The Oklahoman)
Brahaney to be inducted into College Football Hall of Fame: On his way to South Bend, Ind., this weekend, Tom Brahaney felt as if he was playing college football again. "It was like I was going to a football game," Brahaney said. "It made me feel real sentimental." Today, the two-time All-America center at Oklahoma is one of 14 men who will be enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame. Brahaney anchored the OU offensive line in 1971 and 1972 as the Sooners transitioned to the wishbone offense, a dynasty that would last almost 20 years. In the 1971 "Game of the Century," which the Sooners lost to Nebraska 35-31, Brahaney squared off in one of the game's most memorable matchups against Outland Trophy winner Rich Glover, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1995. (The Oklahoman) No word if this event will be televised at a later date.
Washington and Kelly agree to four-year deal: The Washington Redskins completed negotiations with two more draft picks, agreeing to terms with wide receiver Malcolm Kelly -- one of three big receivers they selected in the second round -- and punter Durant Brooks. With training camp scheduled to begin in a week, only three of the Redskins' 10 draft picks are without an agreement. Kelly's deal is for four years and $3.36 million, which includes $1.655 million guaranteed, according to a source familiar with the negotiations who asked not to be identified because a contract has not been signed. (Washington Post)
Falcons waive DJ Wolfe: The Atlanta Falcons waived former Oklahoma defensive back D.J. Wolfe on Friday. A day after not being taken in April’s NFL Draft, the Falcons had signed Wolfe to a rookie free agent contract. Wolfe, who played running back, cornerback and finally strong safety in college, led the Sooners with four interceptions last season and earned second-team All-Big 12 honors. (The Oklahoman)
Sooner Caravan stops in Dallas June 7th: Oklahoma's Sooner Caravan will make its annual stop in Dallas at 7 p.m. June 3. Football coach Bob Stoops, men's basketball coach Jeff Capel and women's basketball coach Sherri Coale are the featured speakers. Tickets are $25 for OU Club of Dallas members and $40 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling toll free at 866-766-6372.
Sad News... Former Oklahoma QB, Lieutenant Governor Jack Mildren passes away: He survived battles with football powerhouses like Nebraska and Texas and weathered a few political skirmishes in Oklahoma government's second-highest office, but Jack Mildren couldn't beat his toughest opponent: stomach cancer. The former lieutenant governor and pilot of the University of Oklahoma's vaunted wishbone offense died from complications of the disease at an Oklahoma City hospital on Thursday. He was 58. Mildren was diagnosed two years ago with cancer but had continued to serve as a vice chairman for Arvest Bank and host a daily sports radio show on WKY 930-AM. "It had gone into remission and then they did tests sometime in the middle of last summer, and unfortunately it came back," his brother, Richard Mildren, said by telephone early Friday. "Then they went through another round of chemotherapy and that didn't work. He went to (University of Texas) M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and I don't know what became of that. "He kind of just didn't make through the day, you know? He was going through a bad time. It didn't look good for the home team," his brother said. Legislators at the state Capitol observed a moment of silence for Mildren, a Democrat who walked the halls there in the 1990s. (AP/SoonerSports.com)
Vince Carter inspires others to lose the weight: When viewers turn on their television sets, the most popular shows seem to be reality-based. Shows like "American Idol" and "Dancing with The Stars" attract millions of fans. One of the popular reality shows to hit the small screen is "The Biggest Loser," where people compete in a weight loss contest. Former University of Oklahoma football player Vince Carter has decided to create his own version of the popular show in Norman. In conjunction with his personal training facility, Break Out, 905 N. Flood St., Carter has started The Break Out Couples Challenge. For six weeks, Carter will put married couples through personal training sessions to help them lose weight and create a healthy lifestyle. (More at the Norman Transcript)
Former Sooner Tony Casiilas inducted into Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame: Basketball great Marques Haynes had made three wishes, and all of them came true Wednesday at the state capitol. It happened when the 2008 Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame class was introduced in the capitol's Blue Room. Two former state football stars, Oklahoma noseguard Tony Casillas and Tulsa wide receiver Drew Pearson, were added to the previously announced quartet of baseball pitcher Eddie Fisher, wrestling legend Jack Van Bebber and basketball coaches Bob Bass and Zip Gayles. Casillas, a two-time All-American at OU, and Fisher, one of baseball's best relief pitchers for 15 years, also attended Wednesday's press conference. "Being recognized as one of the greatest athletes in Oklahoma is something I never envisioned," said Casillas, a Tulsa native. "It's very humbling to be mentioned in the same breath with these individuals." (The Oklahoman)
Alonzo Dotson cut from the Redskins: The Redskins signed quarterback Derek Devine and safety Patrick Ghee and cut defensive end Alonzo Dotson (former Sooner), quarterback Bret Meyer and safeties Kevin Mitchell and Justin Scott, all of whom signed as rookie free agents last week. (Washington Times)
DB Will Ford commits to Oklahoma: Defensive back Will Ford of Abilene Cooper (Texas) High School confirmed that he committed to Oklahoma on Monday, bringing the Sooners' 2009 commitment total to 11. Ford (6-foot-1, 190 pounds) also had scholarship offers from Baylor, Texas Christian and Texas Tech. (The Oklahoman)
Dotson and Baker the latest OU free-agent signees: Former Oklahoma defensive end Alonzo Dotson has agreed to terms on a free-agent contract with the Washington Redskins. Dotson is the sixth undrafted Sooner to be picked up by an NFL team. He joins Lewis Baker (San Francisco), Joe Jon Finley (San Francisco), Garrett Hartley (Denver), Marcus Walker (Minnesota) and D.J. Wolfe (Atlanta). (The Oklahoman)
Baltimore Ravens select Allen Patrick 240th overall: The Baltimore Ravens selected Allen Patrick, former Oklahoma running back 240th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft.
Reggie Smith selected 75th overall by SF. 49ers: The 49ers started off Sunday morning with their third-round selection of cornerback Reggie Smith out of Oklahoma. Unlike the 49ers first two picks who had large gatherings to celebrate their selections on Saturday, Smith received the news while still in bed. "I was in bed still," admitted Smith. "I just rolled out. I was just waiting. I didn’t know when I would get drafted. I had heard anything from second to third." (49ers.com)
Redskins draft Malcolm Kelly 51st overall in NFL Draft: The Redskins selected Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly with their third second-round draft pick on Saturday. Kelly was the 51st overall pick in the draft. Kelly, 6-3 and 219 pounds, made the most of his opportunities at run-oriented Oklahoma and ended up becoming one of the elite wide receivers in Sooners history. (Redskins.com)
Travis Wilson and Clint Ingram featured in documentary Two Days in April: Every boy who has ever played football, from Pop Warner, to high school, or in the backyard with their buddies, dreams of being the star player who leads their team to Super Bowl victory. Very few are lucky enough to have the talent to even compete at a college level, let alone make it to the pros. However, for a select few, their dreams have the chance to come true over two days in April at the NFL draft. Each year, the National Football League has football fans and players, alike, holding their collective breath to see out of the thousands of eligible college players, who will be the lucky 255 to have the opportunity to play? TWO DAYS IN APRIL follows four young men and their journey to be drafted into the NFL. Signed by super sports agent, Tom Condon, they are brought to the exclusive IMG academy to elevate their game before crucial draft benchmarks. For the next 16 weeks, they will be trained, both mentally and physically, by some of the top professionals in the world of sports and football. Their job is to help prepare these players for what equates to the most daunting job interview ever imagined - the NFL combine, where the slightest error can cost a player millions of dollars, or even worse, the opportunity to play professional football. With unprecedented access, TWO DAYS IN APRIL reveals the never-before-seen side of what it truly takes to make it in the NFL. Much more than a sports movie, TWO DAYS IN APRIL chronicles the human spirit of commitment in the face of huge odds and enormous competition. It’s about hope, dedication, success and disappointment. We follow the dream of two parents, who have sacrificed much, to see their sons succeed. We meet a grandmother hoping to stay alive long enough to see her devoted grandson reach his goals. We feel the desperation of a soon-to-be wife showing her love and support while her future husband grasps on to hope. In two excruciating and anxiety ridden days in April, will all of their dreams finally come true? (twodaysinapril.com) "Two Days in April" documentary is available to through Netflix.com.
ProFootballCentral.com interviews WR Malcolm Kelly: Pro Football Central recently sat down with former Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly. In what NFL Insiders and Writers call a a must listen and PFC will air it live on Pro Football Central Radio this tonight at 7 pm est! (ProFootballCentral.com)
Former Sooner Tommie Harris holding celebrity golf and billiards event: Former Sooner and current Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris is coming back to Oklahoma to host his annual charity golf tournament the weekend of May 2-3. The Tommie Harris Celebrity Classic will feature a dinner and auction Friday, May 2, at the Oklahoma History Center, as well as a golf tournament Saturday, May 3, at the Belmar Golf Club and a billiards tournament later in the night at Riverwind Casino. Several former Sooners are scheduled to participate, including Roy Williams of the Dallas Cowboys, Davin Joseph of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Teddy Lehman of the Buccaneers, Jammal Brown of the New Orleans Saints, Dusty Dvoracek of the Bears and Mark Bradley of the Bears. Other NFL players attending include former Oklahoma State player R.W. McQuarters of the New York Giants, Greg Jennings of the Green Bay Packers and Sam Hurd of the Cowboys. Proceeds from the event will go to the Boys & Girls Club of America, the United Leukodystrophy Foundation and The Tommie Harris Foundation, which raises funds for the purpose of preventing child abuse in America. For more information, call (405) 949-0022, ext: 403. (PR)
Former OU WR Kelly apologizes: Former Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly went on a Tyler, Texas, radio station Thursday evening to apologize for publicly ripping the Sooner strength staff after his pro day. "I should've went to the guy I was mad at rather than put it in the media like that," Kelly said, referring to OU strength and conditioning coach Jerry Schmidt. "That was a mistake on my part." Kelly blamed the OU strength staff for changing the testing surface from AstroTurf to field turf the morning of the pro day. Schmidt said it was the more than 35 pro scouts in attendance who asked him to move the testing to field turf. "I can't say I was prepared as I should've been," Kelly said. "I hadn't ever run on that surface as far as my training goes. "But I want to make one thing clear: I'm not blaming anyone for the time that I ran." Kelly told the radio station that he was thinking about his family when he ranted about the OU staff. "This isn't just about me. I don't want my parents to work again in their lifetime," he said. "That can be the difference between running this and running that. I was thinking about my family when I said all of that stuff. "You never saw me say stuff after a game, like, why didn't they throw me the ball, I was open on every play. I never want to portray myself as a guy that complains. The other guys who were training wanted to say the same things I did, but I went out and said it." (More at The Oklahoman)
Kelly on his pro day work out: [Malcolm] Kelly, who ran the 40-yard dash in 4.68 seconds, said he wasn't told by the OU strength staff until this morning that the location of the pro day had been moved from Astroturf in the Mosier Center to field turf inside the Everest Indoor Training Center. "I had everything set up for where I wanted to do it at," Kelly said. "I get up here this morning and it's a whole different deal. This is my life. It's got to do with me and my family. This is what I do, play football, and I'm supposed to run as fast as I can. I was slipping all over the place during my drill work. I can't say I'm pleased with anything today. "People want to say surface is surface, but it's a lot more to it than that," Kelly said. "You have to think about how much ground time you have running on this mushy surface here and how much ground time you have on Astroturf. "Just a little bit of time could mean a whole lot of draft money." (The Oklahoman)
OU LB Rod Shoate on Ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame: The National Football Foundation (NFF) announced the names of 75 players and eight coaches who comprise the 2008 Football Bowl Subdivision Ballot for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. Of the 4.6 million individuals who have played college football, only 829 players have earned induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. From the coaching ranks, 178 individuals have achieved Hall of Fame distinction. The FBS Hall of Fame Class will be announced live on ESPNEWS at a press conference in New York City's prestigious Waldorf-Astoria on May 1 and inducted at The National Football Foundation's Annual Awards Dinner on December 9, 2008 also at the Waldorf-Astoria. They will be officially enshrined at the Hall in South Bend, Ind. in the summer of 2009. (NFF) One former Sooner is listed on this year's College Football Hall of Fame ballot.
Rod Shoate, Oklahoma-Linebacker 1973 consensus and 1974 unanimous First Team All-America...Finished seventh in the 1974 Heisman Trophy voting and twice named Big Eight Defensive Player of the Year...Ranks third in school history with 420 career tackles.
Quote of the Day: "You made yourself a lot of money today," a scout telling Curtis Lofton.
Malcolm Kelly expected to workout April 9: Wide receiver Malcolm Kelly didn't work out because he's still recovering from a strained thigh muscle. He and Reggie Smith (broken toe in the Big 12 championship game) will work out for scouts at OU on April 9. Kelly said skipping his senior year wasn't a hard decision. "When I heard (first round), there's too much to chance it to come back," he said. "OU's going to win with Malcolm Kelly or without Malcolm Kelly. They're going to win Big 12 championships with me or without me. I would have loved to have been a part of it, but this team is a whole lot bigger than me." (Tulsa World)
Former Sooners attend Pro Day: Several ex-OU standouts now on NFL rosters came to pro day to visit with former coaches and cheer on old teammates. That list included defensive end Larry Birdine (Broncos), wide receiver Mark Clayton (Ravens), linebacker Clint Ingram (Jaguars) and wide receiver Travis Wilson (Browns). Former running back Renaldo Works, safety Jason Carter and offensive lineman Chris Messner were also in attendance. (The Oklahoman)
Adrian Peterson's Vikings #28 sixth best selling jersey: Top 20 Best Selling NFL Jerseys from April 1-Feb. 8, on NFLShop.com. (Darren Rovell/CNBC.com)
1. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys 2. Tom Brady, New England Patriots 3. Brett Favre, Green Bay Packers 4. Peyton Manning, Indianapolis Colts 5. LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego Chargers 6. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings 7. Eli Manning, New York Giants 8. Randy Moss, New England Patriots 9. Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears 10. Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh Steelers Note: In 1998 Randy Moss became the only NFL Rookie to have the league's most popular jersey.
Former OU QB Thompson's conviction overturned: [Charles] Thompson, who was arrested at the height of his college football career at OU for dealing cocaine, recently won the battle to clear his name in a public intoxication case when the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals unanimously reversed his conviction and threw out a $69 fine, citing a lack of evidence. "A lot of people thought it was a small matter in terms of a fine, but it was a big matter in terms of my reputation,” Thompson said. "I never should have been arrested.” At trial in January 2007, five witnesses testified there was no alcohol in the room and that Thompson had not been drinking. But a city judge believed the officers and found Thompson guilty. He was fined $69. Thompson appealed the case, saying he wanted to clear his name. The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals unanimously reversed the city court's decision. An opinion written by Judge David B. Lewis said the evidence in the case did not support a conviction because the city failed to prove Thompson was drunk in a public place. Thompson said he feels vindicated by the decision. Oklahoma City officials declined to comment. Thompson thanked his attorney, Mike Johnson, who said he waived legal fees to challenge the case because Thompson is a friend. (The Oklahoman)
Adrian Peterson earns MVP honors: From NFL.com.. Sure, Adrian Peterson is a rookie. Sure, the Pro Bowl was a new experience for him. Sure, he might not have been all that familiar with the game's somewhat casual tempo. But Peterson operates at only one speed: Full. That was the reason that he ran for 1,341 yards for the Minnesota Vikings, becoming the first rookie to lead the NFC in that category since Barry Sanders in 1989. That was the reason he established the league's single-game rushing record with 296 yards against San Diego. And that was the speed at which Peterson functioned Sunday in rushing for 129 yards (second-most in Pro Bowl history) and two touchdowns in the NFC's 42-30 victory over the AFC. The performance earned him MVP honors and high praise from his fellow Pro Bowlers. (NFL.com)
Julio Jones at 'Bama hoops game: Julio Jones, the wide receiver from Foley, Ala., who's ranked by some services as the No. 1 player in the nation, reportedly took an official visit to Alabama this weekend for the Crimson Tide's basketball game against LSU. During a second-half timeout, Tide fans reportedly began chanting Jones' first name as he sat with Foley teammate Robert Lester and previous verbal commitment Burton Scott. (Tulsa World)
Sooners offense and Bradford recognized by NCAA: Each year the NCAA sends out certificates to recognize statistical champions for the sport of football. For all its success and probably due to its balance, Oklahoma has been something of a rare recipient. That changed this year when Sam Bradford finished as the nation's leader in passing efficiency and OU's team topped the nation in the same category. Bradford finished with an efficiency of 176.5 to outdistance Florida quarterback and Heisman winner Tim Tebow, who finished at 172.5. As a team, Oklahoma finished at 170.6 with Florida second at 170.1. Oklahoma had not won an individual statistical championship since 1979 when running back Billy Sims led the nation in scoring with 138 points. (SoonerSports.com)
Seven Former Sooners invited to NFL Combine: Over the weekend, the NFL Combine released its invite list, which includes receiver Malcolm Kelly, linebacker Curtis Lofton, cornerback Reggie Smith, running back Allen Patrick, cornerback Marcus Walker, tight end Joe Jon Finley and safety D.J. Wolfe. The combine will take place Feb. 20-26 in Indianapolis. (The Oklahoman)The NFL combine will be televised on NFL Network.
Junior day at OU: It's the last weekend senior prospects can make campus visits before Wednesday's signing day, but with several dozen juniors on campus for OU's official "Junior Day," there are no official visits scheduled for this weekend. Among those in Norman: Bryce Brown, a running back from Wichita, Kan., who might project as the No. 1 back in the country next year; David Oku, the 5-foot-8, 176-pound running back from Midwest City Carl Albert (widely considered the top back in the state next season), wide receiver Greg Timmons of Aldine, Texas, who's widely considered one of the top wideout prospects in Texas, and Thomas Ashcraft of Cedar Hill, Texas, who may rank as the top offensive lineman in Texas. (Tulsa World)
Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and Wes Welker to be honored at Headliner Banquet: Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops and New England receiver Wes Welker will be honored by The March of Dimes at the 32nd annual Sports Headliner Banquet, at 7 p.m. March 12 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Welker, an Oklahoma native who played football at Heritage Hall High School and Texas Tech, is this year's Sports Headliner. He is a wide receiver for the New England Patriots. Welker set a franchise record in the 2007 regular season with 112 receptions, which also tied for the NFL lead. Stoops is this year's Headliner Special. This year's OU team won the Big 12 championship and played in the Fiesta Bowl. The March 12 event at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City will begin with a special reception for sponsors at 6 p.m. followed by the awards dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are still available. Please contact the March of Dimes at (405) 943-1025 or MarchofDimes.com/Oklahoma for more information. (The Oklahoman) In addition, Sam Bradford and former Oklahoma runningback Adrian Peterson will be given honoree awards.
Can you guess this former Sooner?If not, your not alone. Supposedly it's a slimmed down, Moe (Lawrence) Dampeer, the former defensive tackle that suddenly vanished from the team after the '04 season. According to thelostogle.com, Dampeer is off to Hollywood and the next American Idol round. I'm skeptical, though, It's kinda hard to imagine its Dampeer. (Below: Moe in '03, weighing 300lbs)
Adrian Peterson named Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year: Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was chosen as the 2007 Diet Pepsi Rookie of the Year, the NFL announced Thursday in Phoenix. The former Oklahoma star won the award in fan voting on the NFL's Web site. Nearly 440,000 fans voted from Jan. 3-28, topping last year's record of 363,500 voters. Peterson was one of five finalists for the award. The other finalists were wide receiver Dwayne Bowe of the Kansas City Chiefs; running back Marshawn Lynch of the Buffalo Bills; offensive tackle Joe Thomas of the Cleveland Browns and linebacker Patrick Willis of the San Francisco 49ers. (The Oklahoman)
Selmon receives '75 Outland Trophy: Sooner great Lee Roy Selmon finally picked up his Outland Trophy 32 years after winning the award. Selmon joined 2007 recipient, LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, at an awards dinner in Omaha, Neb., on Thursday evening. The Outland award, presented each season to the nation's best collegiate interior lineman by the Football Writers Association of America, didn't present an actual trophy until the 1980s, so a past recipient is brought back each year to receive his own hardware. "When you think of Outland, you think of guys from Nebraska and Oklahoma -- big-time football players -- guys with great character who basically come out and just beat the tar out of you,'' Dorsey said. (SoonerSports PR)
Wolfe to play in Senior Bowl: Oklahoma safety D.J. Wolfe has been selected to play in this year's Under Armour Senior Bowl. The game will be played Jan. 26 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. The contest will kick off at 3 p.m., and be televised on the NFL Network, Cox digital cable 252. (Tulsa World)
Lewis Baker starts in place of Ryan Reynolds: Weakside linebacker Ryan Reynolds, a pass coverage target of OU's last two opponents, was replaced by former safety Lewis Baker to start Saturday's game. Reynolds did come on during Missouri's second possession, and spent most of the rest of the game blitzing Missouri QB Chase Daniel. (Tulsa World)
Former All-American Brahaney honored at halftime: Oklahoma honored former All-American center Tom Brahaney at halftime. Brahaney will be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on Dec. 4. Brahaney anchored the OU offensive line during the heyday of the wishbone. He becomes the 18th Sooner enshrined in the hall. Oklahoma's last inductee was Joe Washington in 2005. Other notable 2007 inductees include Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie, Oregon wide receiver Ahmad Rashad and Penn State coach Joe Paterno. (NewsOK.com)
Recruits in town for OU-Missouri:More than three dozen recruits, including Muskogee wide receiver Jameel Owens, were on hand for Saturday's game. Only six were on official campus visits -- one was quarterback Landry Jones from Artesia, N.M., who's already given OU a verbal commitment. OU coach Bob Stoops spent several minutes prior to pregame warmups speaking with Jeff Fuller, a verbal commitment from McKinney, Texas. (Tulsa World)
C. Brown sees limited action: Redshirt freshman running back DeMarco Murray said he had his carries limited against Missouri because of a left foot injury. Murray had a team-high 17 carries for 128 yards and an electrifying 65-yard touchdown run in a win over Texas last week. But against Missouri, he had only four carries for 2 yards. "All last week, my foot was bothering me. It's a bruised bone or something like that," Murray said. "I really didn't practice as much as I usually do. It was hurting every time I got tackled." (Dallas Morning News)
Undrafted Paul Thompson may serve well at No. 3 QB: From PackersNews.com... Perhaps in the end, undrafted rookie Paul Thompson will be a better prospect for the Green Bay Packers' practice squad this year than for their No. 3 quarterback job. But 11 days into training camp, the former Oklahoma quarterback whom most NFL teams considered a receiving prospect, quietly has shown some intriguing ability as an NFL backup quarterback. Thompson has grown noticeably at the NFL's most difficult position since joining the team in late spring. He's demonstrated more than enough athletic ability and arm talent to intrigue the Packers and, depending on how he plays when he gets a chance in the preseason, perhaps could make a run at Ingle Martin for the No. 3 quarterback job this season. (PackersNews.com)
A. Peterson leaves practice with injury: Minnesota Vikings rookie running back Adrian Peterson left Thursday's practice with an injury after taking an elbow to his hip while catching a pass in a drill, but he said it wasn't serious. "It's not a big deal at all," said Peterson, who called the injury a minor hip pointer.Peterson missed the first five practices of training camp before signing on Sunday a five-year, $40.5 million contract that includes $17 million guaranteed. His status is day to day, but he's unlikely to participate in weekend scrimmages against the Kansas City Chiefs.(AP/MSNBC.com) Update: Adrian Peterson suffered a hip pointer injury in practice.
Sooners 2007 Practice Schedule Wednesday: Players report Thursday: Conditioning test, practice (helmets only) Friday: Media Day, Fans Meet the Sooners, practice (helmets only) Saturday: Practice, 5-7:30 p.m. Sunday: Practice, 4:30 p.m. (Memorial Stadium) Monday: Practice, 5-7:30 p.m. (full pads) Tuesday: Practice, 9-11 a.m., 6-8:10 p.m. Wednesday: Practice, 5-7:30 p.m. Aug. 9: Practice, 9-11 a.m., 6-8:10 p.m. Aug. 10: Off Aug. 11: Scrimmage, 11 a.m. (Memorial Stadium) Aug. 12: Off Aug. 13: Practice, 9-11 a.m., 6-8:10 p.m. Aug. 14: Practice, 5-7:30 p.m. Aug. 15: Practice, 9-11 a.m., 6-8:10 p.m. Aug. 16: Practice, 5-7:30 p.m. Aug. 17: Practice, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Aug. 18: Scrimmage, 6 p.m. (Memorial Stadium) Aug. 19: Off Aug. 20: First day of class (normal practice schedule begins) Aug. 22: Scrimmage, 6 p.m. (Memorial Stadium)
OU Tickets Commemorating Oklahoma's Centennial: With the 2007 football season opener just weeks away, anticipation is mounting for fans awaiting the arrival of their season tickets. Tickets are scheduled to be mailed out at the end of this week. Featuring the official logo adopted by the Oklahoma Centennial Commission commemorating the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma's statehood, the 2007 Sooner football tickets link the impact each institution has had on the other. As stated on the tickets, while the Sooners actually pre-date Oklahoma's admittance to the Union by 13 years, the two have reveled in each other's success and pulled from each other's strength for so long that they are now nearly one in the same. For many, you can't say 'Oklahoma' without saying 'Sooners'. The 2007 tickets feature a selection of record-setting team and individual performances from Oklahoma's football tradition. (SoonerSports.com)
Former Sooner Cody may miss entire NFL season: [Dan] Cody, who is in his third season with the Ravens, will sit out the next four weeks. He hyperextended his right knee and tore cartilage during a non-contact drill on May 20. He told The Sun he had his knee scoped two weeks ago. If his knee doesn't improve, he could have surgery, which would force him to miss the season. (NewsOK.com)
Reminder Oklahoma Football Single Game Tickets on sale Tomorrow: As previously posted.. Tickets for the 2007 Oklahoma home football games will go on sale Wednesday, August 1 at 8 a.m. Fans may purchase tickets online at SoonerSports.com or by calling 800-456-GoOU. Due to the high volume of calls expected, fans are encouraged to make their purchases online. Beginning at 10 a.m., tickets will also be available for purchase in person at the Athletics Ticket Office located on the plaza level of the Asp Avenue parking garage. Athletics department officials anticipate that a limited number of tickets will be available for each of the seven home games. The tickets, which range in price from $47 - $77, will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. (SoonerSports PR)
Former Sooner T. Harris proclaims himself "Real Deal': Tommie Harris sang in the huddle and made it clear he would like to be known as the "Real Deal." The Chicago Bears' Pro Bowl defensive tackle was ready to perform when training camp opened and that's because he showed up healthy. "I'm basically full tilt, something they better be aware of," the former Oklahoma standout said. Although the Bears got to the Super Bowl after Harris suffered a season-ending hamstring injury last season, they realize his health will go a long way toward determining whether they make another run. Harris said "Real Deal” was his nickname in high school, and he would repeat it to himself after breaking the huddle during his first three years with the Bears. Now, he's going public with it. (NewsOK.com)
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesFormer OU Star Adrian Peterson signs with Vikings: The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to terms with 1st-round draft choice RB Adrian Peterson (#7 overall) from Oklahoma. The Vikings have now signed/agreed to terms with all 8 of their draft picks from the 2007 NFL Draft. (Vikings.com)
Peterson signs five-year, maximum $40 million possible: The No. 7 overall draft pick ended his brief three-day holdout on Sunday when he [Adrain Peterson] signed a five-year, $40.5 million contract with $17 million in guaranteed money."It's about time," Taylor said Sunday with a chuckle after the Vikings wrapped up their fifth training camp practice without his new backfield mate. "We need him out here so we can groove our offense even better with him coming back. So I'm just looking forward to him taking the field." (AP/Forbes)
Contract a six-year deal? Although avoidable: He [Peterson] was traveling to the Twin Cities from Norman, Okla., Sunday evening to sign a deal that would pay him a maximum of $40 million if he reaches all of its incentives.The Vikings guaranteed Peterson $17 million over the course of the deal, a critical figure for running backs, who typically have shorter-than-average careers in the NFL. Although the contract technically spans six years, the final year is voidable and exists mostly for salary cap purposes. If he reaches none of the incentives but plays five years, Peterson will earn about $25 million. (Star-Tribune)
OU Kicker Moreland receives scholarship: Mike McCabe, Prattville High School's kicking coach, held a three-day kicking camp at the school's football practice field over the weekend. McCabe's One on One Kicking School is regarded as one of the elite in the nation. At the weekend camp, two of his students, Matthew Moreland and Dylan Van Fossen received scholarship offers. Moreland will attend the University of Oklahoma, while Dylan Van Fossen will attend Central Oklahoma University on athletic scholarships. (Prattville Progress)
Former OU WR Clayton enters blogosphere: Former Oklahoma WR Mark Clayton has joined other athletes in the world of blogging, check he's blog out at yardbarker.com/users/MarkClayton.
It's a fan favorite for NCAA College Football fans, to gather the friends and start the game strategy. It's NCAA Football '08 by EA Sports. In the latest advertising campaign, former sooner, Adrian Peterson, promotes (see below) the latest version of NCAA Football -- David vs. Goliath. NCAA Football '08 is set to be available July 17th on PS3, XBOX360, XBOX and PS2.
Former Sooner Howard Duncan & Destroyers take on the Desperados: Most of the outside world had counted out the Columbus Destroyers long before kickoff to last Saturday's divisional playoff contest in Dallas. The 8-9 Destroyers had other ideas. After all, the 15-1 Desperados didn't seem as invincible to a Destroyers team that just narrowly lost to them in late May and have proven all season long to have a knack for raising their game to the level of the competition: regardless of how high the bar is set. Last Saturday night, in front of 15,000+ hostile fans, Columbus quarterback Matt Nagy shredded the Dallas defense, passing for 4 TD's and rushing for another two. A key cog to the Destroyers improbable run to the Conference Championship has been the stellar play of their offensive line, and on it, former Oklahoma Sooner, Howard Duncan. Duncan, a native of Liberia, became a regular on the Destroyers O-line during the 2006 season, and he is no stranger to success. The 6'4 300 LB Duncan was a Third-Team All Big-12 selection while at Oklahoma. His tenure under Bob Stoops was capped with a National Championship in 2000. Prior to his days in Norman, Duncan started 24 straight games while at Butler Community College. During the stretch, the team compiled a mind-boggling 23-1 record, including two National Championships. For his efforts, Howard Duncan was named the Jayhawk Junior College Offensive Lineman of the Year. Duncan and his fellow Destroyers have had a roller-coaster of a season. Big wins over upper echelon opponents including both Dallas and Georgia have proved them to be capable of big time success. However, the consistency just hasn't been there as they struggled to put together a true winning streak at any point in the season. Regardless, on the heels of two stellar playoff performances, the Destroyers find themselves 60 minutes away from a trip to New Orleans and a chance to play for an ArenaBowl Championship. Be sure to check out Howard Duncan and the Columbus Destroyers on Saturday July 14, 1:00PM ET on ESPN. (Gregg Hayim/AFL PR)
Adrian Peterson day celebrated in Palestine: Peterson, a Palestine High School graduate and Heisman Trophy runner-up at Oklahoma, recently was selected by the Minnesota Vikings with the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft."Adrian is our light, he's our sunshine here," event organizer Carol Pegues said. "We are just honoring him because he's brought some real joy to our city. We watched him from high school, college and now professionally."The event will include a 10 a.m. parade beginning at the Anderson County Courthouse and ending in Old Town Palestine, and a presentation at Wildcat Stadium.Peterson will be given a proxy to the city at the presentation, during which June 23 will be declared "Adrian Peterson Day.""(Adrian) has really put Palestine on the map," Pegues said. "Everybody is really excited about it. Adrian has pulled Palestine together."Expected to attend the event are former Palestine head coach Jeff Harrell and representatives from Oklahoma and the Vikings, Pegues said. (TylerPaper.com)
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Rufus Alexander signs with Minnesota: The Minnesota Vikings have signed 6th-round pick (#176 overall) LB Rufus Alexander. He becomes the 3rd of the Vikings' 8 selections from the 2007 NFL Draft to sign, joining 7th-round selections QB Tyler Thigpen and WR Chandler Williams. Alexander was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year as a senior at Oklahoma in 2006 and was a 2-time All-Big 12 selection. He was a teammate of 1st-round selection RB Adrian Peterson with the Sooners. (Vikings.com) Details are not available at post time. Former Oklahoma running back and first round selection, Adrian Peterson remains unsigned with Minnesota.
Big 12 Commissioner Weiberg resigns for Big Ten position: Big 12 commissioner Kevin Weiberg is stepping down effective July 15 to take a position with the newly formed Big Ten Network. Weiberg's announcement was met with shock across the Big 12 Conference. Weiberg, 50, who had three years remaining on his contract with the Big 12, released a statement and was scheduled to address reporters on a 2 p.m. teleconference. "I am proud of the growth and progress of the Big 12 over the last nine years," Weiberg said in a statement. "By working together our members have excelled competitively, significantly grown revenues, and established a strong national presence and leadership position among the major conferences." Weiberg wrapped up his ninth year as commissioner of the Big 12 by helping to negotiate a new television package with ESPN/ABC for football and basketball over the next eight years. (Dallas Morning News)
Selmon opens seventh restaurant: Former Oklahoma Sooner Lee Roy Selmon recently opened his seventh restaurant -- Lee Roy Selmon's All-American Grill -- in Fort Myers, Fla. All of Selmon's restaurants are in Florida, but if his game plan works out he might expand to other areas, according to the Fort Myers News Press. (NewsOK.com)
No surgery for Adrian; expected in training camp: After dodging questions about his injury before and after the NFL draft, the Vikings announced Wednesday at Winter Park that running back Adrian Peterson's fractured left clavicle would heal naturally and in time for him to be completely healthy when training camp opens in Mankato in late July. After a CT scan confirmed his progress, Vikings team physician Dr. Joel Boyd and trainer Eric Sugarman fully explained to reporters the history of Peterson's injury, including the revelation that he re-broke the clavicle early in the Fiesta Bowl loss to Boise State. "I feel good," Peterson said. "It hasn't been giving me any problems. So it's good news." Peterson's shoulder had been the source of speculation and misinformation throughout the offseason, perhaps causing him to slip to the Vikings at No. 7. But Sugarman, Boyd, coach Brad Childress and vice president Rick Spielman provided a detailed timeline of how they arrived at Wednesday's announcement. (Pioneer Press)
Former QB Paul Thompson in Packers' mini-camp: The Green Bay Packers have signed Oklahoma quarterback Paul Thompson, the team said this afternoon. Thompson is already in Green Bay and will be expected to participate in the mandatory minicamp that runs Friday through Sunday.Brett Favre told a reporter earlier this week that he did not plan to attend the minicamp, in part because of family matters and because he is recovering from ankle surgery. If Favre doesn't change his mind, and with backup quarterback Aaron Rodgers rehabilitating from a broken bone in his foot, the Packers would be down to just third-string quarterback Ingle Martin for the weekend. Packers general manager Ted Thompson would not say today whether the team has excused Favre from the camp. Paul Thompson could help out in minicamp right away because he is from Austin, Texas, and has been working out with former Packers quarterback Ty Detmer since before the combine. Detmer has been giving Thompson a crash course on the Packers West Coast offensive system. (JSOnline)
Former OU Center Brahaney named to College HOF: From one of the most storied football programs in history, Tom Brahaney continues the legacy of outstanding Oklahoma players in the College Football Hall of Fame. Brahaney became the 23rd Sooner (18 players, five coaches) inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on Wednesday. A two-time consensus First Team All-America ('71, '72), Brahaney was the hub of an offensive line that allowed the Sooners to lead the nation in rushing, scoring and total offense in 1971. The Midland, Texas, native was also a two-time All-Big-8 selection and a Lombardi Award finalist in 1972. Serving as team captain during his senior campaign, Brahaney's snap precision and unsurpassed one-on-one blocking earned him high acclaim -- even from archrivals. Following the 1971 "Game of the Century," Nebraska's Rich Glover, a 1995 College Football Hall of Fame inductee, called Brahaney the best center he played against all year. (SoonerSports.com)
Quote: Former Oklahoma QB Jack Mildren said of Brahaney, "Probably the best center in OU's history," said Mildren, Brahaney's 1971 quarterback. (More at OU's Brahaney named to college Hall at NewsOK.com)
ESPN.com NFL Analyst John Clayton on NFC's Big Questions:
Did the Vikings make a mistake passing on Brady Quinn? Last Saturday, the draft played out so well for the Vikings that they had the option of getting a franchise quarterback or a franchise running back. Quinn tempted them, but they went with Adrian Peterson. No one can argue about Peterson's talent. He's an angry runner and a great talent. Within a year, he should be among the elite backs in football. (More at ESPN.com)
Adrian Peterson takes questions as a Viking: Q: Well has it hit you that this is your first practice as a pro? Peterson A: Yeah, it's all sinking in. Just being out here and having that purple helmet on, representing the Vikings, it's tangible. It's finally here. Q: Have you had any contact with Coach Childress about your role in the offense yet? Peterson A: No, we already talked, but basically I'm another contributor to the team. I'm going to go out there and in whatever way help my team win championships and the Super Bowl. I'm just willing to take that and go with it. (More at SoonerSports.com) Sad News; Ex-Sooner Clayton's Uncle shot and killed: The uncle of former OU football player Mark Clayton was killed this weekend in what police believe was a gang-related shooting outside a northeast Oklahoma City club. About 1:30 a.m. Sunday, a group of men fired shots into the west parking lot of Boots and Saddles Club at NE 23 and Bryant Avenue. The shots killed Donald Lee Austin Jr., 46, Oklahoma City police Sgt. Paco Balderrama stated in a news release. (NewsOK.com)
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Latimer signs with Redskins: Washington Redskins agreed to terms with former Oklahoma linebacker Zach Latimer, who made 180 tackles for the Sooners. Redkins rookie camp begins Friday. Signing bonus undisclosed. Packers pickup Larry Birdine: The former Oklahoma Sooner and Lawton Ike Eagle [Larry Birdine] signed a free agent contract with the Packers after not getting picked in last weekend's NFL draft. That's according to Birdine. The Packers have not officially commented on it yet. (KSWO) Signing bonus undisclosed.
Peterson surgery to be determined; insist he'll be in minicamp next week: The Vikings are expected to determine in the coming days whether they want top draft pick Adrian Peterson to have a plate inserted into his collarbone to aid healing. Peterson and Vikings coach Brad Childress have insisted the running back will be ready for training camp and will participate in next weekend's rookie minicamp. But they have been less resolute on how they will handle Peterson's collarbone, which he re-injured during the Fiesta Bowl. "The situation is that my collarbone is healing, and it's not going to hold me back from anything," Peterson said Sunday. "I'm looking forward to being ready when the season starts." (Pioneer Press)
Former Oklahoma QB, WWLS Color Analyst Thompson Arrested at OKC area hotel: Police arrested former Oklahoma quarterback and local radio announcer Charles Thompson on complaints of public drunkenness and disturbing the peace following a disturbance at a local hotel. Thompson, 38, was arrested early Saturday morning at a Residence Inn after police received three complaints of loud noise coming from Thompson's room, police said. After arriving at the hotel, officers said Thompson was uncooperative and smelled of alcohol. He was arrested after he stepped from his hotel room and told police, "Then take me to jail," according to the report. During his arrest, Thompson reportedly asked officers, "Do you know who I am?" As police led Thompson to a patrol car, he told his friends, "Get [Oklahoma City Mayor] Mick Cornett on the phone. He'll deal with this." Thompson, who led the Sooners to an 11-1 season in 1987, was arrested in 1989 on charges he sold 17 grams of cocaine to undercover FBI agents for $1,400. Following his arrest, he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine in handcuffs and an orange jail-issue jumpsuit. He later served a stint in prison as a result of the charges. Most recently, Thompson worked as a color analyst covering high school football games for Oklahoma City sports radio station WWLS. (AP/SI.com)
The Boz's wife files for divorce: The Boz, Brian Bosworth best known for his wild hairstyles, and being arrogant was the face of the defense in latter Barry Switzer days. Bosworth winner of two Butkus awards as the nation's top collegiate linebacker was upended by his wife of 12 years, Katherine Bosworth. Katherine filed for a divorce in the Los Angeles Superior Court, as the couple separated July '06. (More at Oklahoma Fanhouse)
