Oklahoma Sooners Spring Football Preview | Receivers

After a very disappointing 2014 campaign that got coach Jay Norvell fired, Bob Stoops desperately needed to get some wide receiver help. Oklahoma signed four new receivers, and a couple could make an impact this year. With the hiring of Lincoln Riley, and the expected implementation of the Air Raid offense, it seems as though the tight end position will not be needed, at least as much as in years past.

THE STAR - STERLING SHEPARD

The senior wide out accounted for virtually all of the production from wide receivers last year. Sterling is a game changer that defenses have to game plan for. As Trevor Knight's favorite (and sometimes only) target last year, he caught 51 balls for 970 yards. With a more pass-centric offense, it's not hard to believe that Shepard could catch 100 passes and be well over 1,000 yards this year.

THE DARKHORSE - DURRON NEAL

Neal greatly under performed last season. He was expected to emerge as a viable second option, and didn't. Some of it wasn't his fault, sure, but he battled consistency issues, and dropped some passes. Once again, in a more pass oriented offense, he should be able to live up to lower expectations this year. Keep an eye on Neal.

THE HOMERUN THREAT - DEDE WESTBROOK

While he is a newcomer, Westbrook is expected to contribute. A transfer from junior college, he has all the physical tools to be a solid receiver at this level. He'll probably start in the slot, but he can definitely play outside, if needed. He has okay size at 6'0. What really sets him apart is his outstanding breakaway speed; he runs a 4.38 40 yard dash. Expect to see Westbrook's name in the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year race.

THE QUESTION MARK(S) - MICHIAH QUICK & KJ YOUNG

Both of these players were expected to contribute as freshmen, and both failed to do so. Quick caught 25 passes for 237 yards, while Young caught 19 balls for 225 yards. Both have the potential to be great secondary options, and should benefit from Lincoln Riley's system.

THE NEWCOMER - AD MILLER

A 4 star signing day commit, Miller can produce as a freshman. He also could redshirt this year, and really contribute next year. At 6'4, Miller can definitely play outside, and take over the role that Shepperd will leave. If Miller puts on some muscle, watch out.

EXPECTED DEPTH CHART

WR1 - Sterling Shepperd / Dallis Todd / Jeffery Mead

WR2 - Durron Neal / AD Miller / Austin Bennett / Dahu Green (likely redshirt)

S1 - Dede Westbrook / Michiah Quick / John Humphrey (likely redshirt)

S2 - KJ Young / Dalton Wood / Jordan Smallwood