Last fall, the Oklahoma Sooners entered camp with defensive backs Tre Brown and Tre Norwood penciled in as starters in the defensive backfield.
This fall, Brown is a Seattle Seahawk, and Norwood is a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their departure leaves a pile of snaps and new opportunities for returning Sooners in Alex Grinch’s defense.
While converted receiver D.J. Graham is one name to watch, redshirt junior Justin Harrington could be another. The Bakersfield Community College transfer makes his return to the practice fields after rehabbing a knee injury that ended his 2020 season before it began.
Because Harrington’s injury occurred just one week into training camp, there has been little clarity on his role within the secondary.
Defensive backs coach Roy Manning shed some light on Harrington’s place in the Sooners’ defense, informing Bob Pryzbylo that the junior has been practicing “exclusively” at corner.
It’s still a talking point because of Justin Harrington’s size (height, weight), but #Sooners CB coach @CoachRoyM adamant that Harrington has worked at CB exclusively & is making great progress. pic.twitter.com/uNUnqHnF3W
— Bob Przybylo (@BPrzybylo) August 17, 2021
At 6-2, 212 pounds, Harrington is the largest defensive back on the Sooners roster. He could become a real problem for opposing offenses if he possesses the hip flexibility and multi-directional quickness needed to play cornerback. In addition, his large frame allows him to battle receivers at the football’s highest point.
The second-year Sooner also brings physicality to the corner position. His hard-hitting ability on the sideline, coupled with Delarrin Turner-Yell’s physical presence from the safety spot, could give Oklahoma a physical identity from the defensive front through the secondary.
Whether he gets to start or rotates with D.J. Graham and Woodi Washington on the outside, his presence could help bolster the Sooners’ defense on its quest for its eighth national title.
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