Sooners get terrible news out of spring practice from more than one player expecting a big 2026 season

The Oklahoma Sooners are deep into spring practice, but some of their key players who are expecting huge seasons in 2026 have just recently delivered some bad news.

Justin Churchill — College Football & NFL Trending News Writer
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Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables spring football practice
Head coach Brent Venables walks on the field during an Oklahoma (OU) football practice in Norman, Okla., on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Oklahoma Sooners are expected to make a jump in 2026. Last season, they lost in the first round of the 2025 College Football Playoff. The next season is still a ways away, but the start of their journey back to where they were and beyond is off to a bit of a rough start.

Sooners get bad news at spring football practice with injuries to wide receivers

According to Davis Cordova, the Sooners have some bad news at practice this week. Regardless, spring football continues to power on. Fan favorite wide receiver and a sophomore who’s expected to have a bigger season than last year, Elijah Thomas, appears to be in a boot. But, he’s not the only one.

Senior WR Jer’Michael Carter made significant contributions at the end of last season and is expected to carry that momentum into 2026. He is also dealing with an injury. Carter was observed in a boot and using a crutch.

Looking back on Thomas’ 2025 true freshman season, it’s clear his primary contributions came on special teams. Thomas arrived as a highly touted four-star recruit but he found himself developing among a crowded receiver corps. He ultimately recorded just one reception for five yards. This year, he could have a role in the receiver room if he’s healthy and these injury issues continue to harp on.

After transferring from McNeese State, Carter appeared in all 13 games. He primarily contributed on special teams early in the year before carving out a role in the offensive rotation during the late-season stretch. Carter finished his first year in Norman with nine receptions for 101 yards. A significant portion of his production came during the postseason. He recorded a season-high three catches for 46 yards in their first-round matchup against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Sooners will need them both.

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