Oklahoma football revealed its depth chart on Thursday in preparation for the Armed Forces Bowl against Navy, offering a glimpse into the Sooners’ lineup for the Dec. 27 matchup.
Linebacker Danny Stutsman, who earned NCAA consensus All-American honors the same day, was notably absent from the list of available players. Safety Billy Bowman Jr. was also not included in the lineup, raising questions about the impact on Oklahoma’s defensive unit.
Junior running back Jovantae Barnes, the team’s leading rusher, was another significant omission. Barnes sustained an ankle injury during the Nov. 2 game against Maine but made a brief return on Nov. 30 in the clash against LSU. Despite playing in only nine games during the 2024 season, Barnes amassed 577 rushing yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his importance to the team.
On a more positive note, junior defensive lineman Damonic Williams is slated to play in the bowl game. During a media session on Monday, Williams discussed his impending decision on whether to return to Oklahoma for the 2025 season. “Coach Bates, Coach B.V., and I have had multiple conversations about it,” Williams shared. “I’ve also spent a lot of time on the phone with my family. Right now, I’m taking it day by day.”
Redshirt junior wide receiver Deion Burks is listed as a potential starter against Navy. Burks recently announced his decision to return to the Sooners for the 2025 season, a significant move following the departure of six receivers to the transfer portal. Burks has been recovering from a concussion that sidelined him for five weeks but expressed optimism about his readiness to compete in the bowl game. “I’m just trying to get back into the groove,” he said after practice on Monday. “It’s been a while, but I’m hoping to be out there and contribute.”
Oklahoma will face Navy at 11 a.m. on Dec. 27 at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas. The matchup promises to test the Sooners’ depth and resilience as they navigate key player absences and work toward closing the season on a high note.
