Senior LB Caleb Kelly was named to the Danny Wuerffel Trophy preseason watch list on Thursday.
The award, named after the star Florida QB, annually honors the player “who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement.”
Kelly returned to his hometown of Fresno, CA last month to participate in a peaceful protest for racial justice. After coming across photos of a protest in downtown Fresno, Kelly was determined to take a personal stake in the movement.
“I didn’t hear about that one and I was like, ‘I’ll make sure I’ll come out to this one,’” he told the Fresno Bee. “It’s important and powerful, for sure.”
Kelly, rated a five-star LB by 247Sports out of high school, has fought through a gauntlet of injuries during his time in Norman.
After playing much of the 2017 season with a torn shoulder labrum, he was forced to undergo lower body surgery prior to the Sooners’ 2019 campaign.
He played in only four games last year, totaling seven tackles.
Kelly at full-strength would be a valuable addition to any defense, but especially one that is rapidly changing its identity. Since Alex Grinch took over as defensive coordinator, OU’s defense has undergone a complete makeover.
It’s apparent that veterans like Kelly play a key role in ensuring a smooth transition. But Kelly can also benefit from Grinch’s new system and make his final season in Norman his best yet.
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