Last year, [autotag]Drake Stoops[/autotag] was the heart and soul of not just the wide receiver room but the offense as well. Now that Stoops is gone, someone has to step into the void and become a leader for a talented position group.
[autotag]Jalil Farooq[/autotag] is one of the older guys on the team. He’s been a two-year starter at Oklahoma and been productive along the way. He spoke to reporters about embracing a leadership role on the team.
“Just continue to be more of a vocal leader,” Farooq said. “I’m just working on my craft. I’m perfecting my craft first and then making sure everyone around me is doing the same. Just getting that extra work in. Making sure my group is working and continuing to get better. Get the jugs in, extra work, things like that. Being the first ones in and last ones out. Just getting better, day by day.”
Farooq had a not so memorable bowl game but he was a good receiver for Oklahoma a season ago. He had a big-time performance in the Red River Rivalry win, coming up with acrobatic catches and big plays to help the Sooners get the victory over Texas.
He then decided to return to Oklahoma which in the transfer portal era was huge. The more experience and playmakers available, the better. We saw how quickly things can change for a position group when Andrel Anthony was lost for the season due to injury.
The wide receiver group is key to Oklahoma’s success in 2024. With a first-year starter at quarterback and big turnover on the offensive line, the Sooners will rely heavily on their talented group of pass catchers. They are arguably the most talented and deepest on the team. Now, it’s all about continuing to work so they can reach their full potential.
More: Oklahoma’s wide receiver group has a ton of depth
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