It's rare these days, but Brent Venables actually had some good news involving receivers for the Oklahoma Sooners.
Transfer receiver Javonnie Gibson broke his leg early in spring ball, but, according to SoonerScoop's George Stoia, Venables told reporters on Wednesday at SEC Media Days that Gibson is out of a boot and still on schedule to return before the Sooners' season opener against Illinois State on Aug. 30.
Javonnie Gibson on schedule to return after spring injury
Gibson transferred to OU from Arkansas-Pine Bluff this offseason. He had 70 receptions, 1,215 receiving yards and nine touchdowns while averaging 17.4 yards a catch at the FCS level. That big-play ability will be crucial for the Sooners after averaging a measly 6.11 yards per pass attempt last year.
Because of his threat as a downfield weapon, Gibson was expected to make an immediate impact at OU, but his first impression was derailed because of the injury.
Gibson's injury was tough news to hear after the Sooners suffered so many injuries already at the position in 2024. During the Crimson Combine broadcast, OU general manager Jim Nagy referred to the injury as "a fluke deal" and Venables compared it to the one that ended defensive back Kendal Dolbys' season last year. Venables also said the injury required surgery.
After the Crimson Combine in April, though, Venables said then that he expected Gibson to be healthy before the season kicks off. Based on Venables' recent comments, it seems that's still the case.
Read more about OU football