BCSNN — No. 24 Oklahoma will be without one of its most productive offensive weapons for the foreseeable future. Head coach Brent Venables announced Monday that starting wide receiver Trell Harris will miss significant time as he continues to be evaluated following a hard hit sustained in Saturday’s loss at Michigan.
Harris, a senior transfer from Virginia, absorbed a blow to his right side and abdomen from Michigan safety Chris Bracy on an 11‑yard reception late in the first quarter. Though he returned and finished the game — catching four passes for 43 yards — further medical evaluation revealed an injury that will sideline him for an extended period.
“He’ll continue to be evaluated, but he won’t play for some time,” Venables said.
Harris arrived in Norman after a breakout season at Virginia, where he posted 59 receptions for 847 yards and five touchdowns. Through two games with Oklahoma, he has recorded six receptions for 104 yards, quickly emerging as a reliable target in the Sooners’ passing game. He began his career at Kent State before transferring to Virginia and later Oklahoma.
With Harris out, Oklahoma will turn to sophomore Elijah Thomas and junior Mackenzie Alleyne, both of whom Venables praised for their readiness and explosiveness.
“I’m excited about those guys,” Venables said. “They’ve shown enough to give you great confidence in what they’ll do, maybe in an expanded role. Elijah Thomas is one of our most explosive guys. We’ve got to get him involved more. Mackenzie might have been the most productive guy all spring.”
The Sooners may receive better news on the defensive side. Standout linebacker Kip Lewis, Oklahoma’s leading tackler last season, left the Michigan game in the first half with an apparent knee injury. Initial concern suggested a lengthy absence, but Venables said Monday during his weekly coach’s show that the team received “some good news.”
“He’ll be back sooner than maybe we initially thought,” Venables said.
Lewis’ return would be a major boost for a defense that struggled to contain Michigan’s physical run game and explosive passing attack. The sophomore linebacker has been one of Oklahoma’s most consistent defenders since arriving on campus, and his availability will be closely monitored throughout the week.
Oklahoma enters Week 3 at 1–1, looking to rebound from the Michigan loss and stabilize its offensive rhythm without Harris. The Sooners host New Mexico on Saturday in what will be their final nonconference tune‑up before Big 12 play begins.
The Lobos enter the matchup seeking their first win over a Power Four opponent since 2008, while Oklahoma aims to sharpen its depth at wide receiver and reestablish defensive continuity with Lewis’ potential return.
For the Sooners, the week brings both challenge and opportunity — replacing a key offensive playmaker while preparing for the possibility of regaining one of their defensive anchors sooner than expected.
