A little less than two weeks ago it was reported that Oklahoma running back Kennedy Brooks would be returning the Sooners for the 2021 season after electing to opt out of this year.
That report was confirmed by head coach Lincoln Riley on Friday, as well as the impending return of defensive lineman Jalen Redmond, who had also previously opted out of the season.
Lincoln Riley confirms to a small group of local reporters that Kennedy Brooks and Jalen Redmond will return to the #Sooners team in 2021. Redmond even practiced with the team during Cotton Bowl preparations.
— Jason Kersey (@jasonkersey) January 1, 2021
These were both expected returners for the Sooners, but it is still huge to see it confirmed from Riley. Brooks will more than likely be the top running option on offense while Redmond will certainly be a key contributor on the defensive side.
Brooks ran for over 1,000 yards each season in 2018 and 2019 with 18 total touchdowns, while Redmond had 23 total tackles including 11 for loss with six and a half sacks in the 2019 season. These are obviously big additions to a team that finished out 2020 very strong and will be looking to take the next step to true national title contender status in 2021.
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