Keontez Lewis: Following in the Footsteps of His Cousin and Bringing Excitement to Oklahoma Football
The Oklahoma Sooners have long been regarded as one of the top football programs in the nation, with a storied history filled with tradition, success, and an unmatched level of excellence. Over the years, players from all over the country have sought to wear the crimson and cream, with many dreaming of the opportunity to play at one of the premier football schools in the country. This includes Keontez Lewis, a transfer wide receiver who comes to Oklahoma after a successful stint at Southern Illinois.
But while Lewis is an exciting addition to the Sooners’ offense, what makes his story even more intriguing is the family connection he has to Oklahoma football. Lewis is the cousin of C.J. Coldon, a player who made a significant impact during his time with the Sooners in 2022. Coldon’s contributions on defense helped elevate the Oklahoma program, and now, it’s Keontez’s turn to try and make a similar splash, but this time, on the offensive side of the ball.
C.J. Coldon’s Impact at Oklahoma
Before we dive into Keontez Lewis’ potential at Oklahoma, it’s important to understand the role that C.J. Coldon played during his brief time with the Sooners, as his success serves as a foundation for the high expectations surrounding his cousin. Coldon, a cornerback, transferred to Oklahoma from Wyoming in 2022, bringing with him valuable experience from his time as a starter with the Cowboys.
Despite joining the Sooners late in the offseason and missing spring practices, Coldon quickly adapted to the system under Brent Venables, Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator, and showed that he was a quick learner. By the end of the 2022 season, Coldon was not just a regular contributor, but one of the standout defensive players for Oklahoma.
Over the course of the season, Coldon played in all 12 games and started in the final four, cementing his role as a key member of the secondary. His impact was felt on the field, as he led the team with four interceptions, ranking 22nd in the nation in that category. Coldon’s ability to make plays in crucial moments was evident, as he showcased his skills with 43 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, and tied for the team lead in pass breakups with six.
Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of Coldon’s lone season with the Sooners came against Kansas, where he recorded a one-handed interception that became a highlight-reel play and gained widespread praise. He also had an impressive game against West Virginia, recording a career-high 12 tackles. His performances throughout the season earned him honorable mention All-Big 12 honors and even led to him being named the Big 12 Newcomer of the Week after a standout game against Oklahoma State.
Coldon’s success at Oklahoma, despite joining the team under less-than-ideal circumstances, highlighted his adaptability, his football IQ, and his ability to make an impact as a playmaker. His contributions were crucial to a Sooners defense that showed improvement under Venables, and it became clear that Coldon was a key piece of the defensive unit.
Keontez Lewis: Ready to Make His Own Mark
As C.J. Coldon made a name for himself on defense, his cousin, Keontez Lewis, now has the opportunity to create his own legacy at Oklahoma, but on the opposite side of the ball. Keontez, a highly skilled wide receiver, is a transfer from Southern Illinois, where he spent time developing his skills as one of the top players for the Salukis. Lewis brings a unique skill set to Oklahoma’s offense, and his addition should provide an instant boost to the receiving corps.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Lewis has the ideal height and athleticism to be a dominant force in the passing game. His physical attributes, combined with his refined route running, make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. Lewis has the speed to stretch the field vertically and the agility to make defenders miss in open space, making him a threat both downfield and on short-to-intermediate routes.
While at Southern Illinois, Lewis showed flashes of greatness, earning recognition as one of the top performers in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. He was known for his ability to make plays both in the air and after the catch, making him a dual-threat receiver. At Oklahoma, Lewis is expected to play a major role in a high-powered offense led by offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, who has been known for his ability to utilize playmakers in a fast-paced, dynamic system.
One of the most exciting aspects of Lewis’ potential at Oklahoma is his ability to stretch the defense. With the Sooners’ offense poised to continue its uptempo style, Lewis’ speed and vertical ability will be key to keeping defenses on their toes. The Sooners have a history of producing elite wide receivers, and now, with Lewis added to the mix, they are looking to maintain that legacy of excellence.
A Family Tradition of Success at Oklahoma
Keontez Lewis’ connection to Oklahoma goes beyond just the college football program — it’s deeply rooted in family. His cousin, C.J. Coldon, set a high bar for what it means to succeed as a member of the Sooners, and now, Keontez is looking to follow in his footsteps.
Both players share more than just their athletic ability — they also share a commitment to excellence and a desire to contribute to the success of the Oklahoma football program. For C.J. Coldon, that meant making plays on the defensive side of the ball and helping his team secure key victories. For Keontez, it means bringing his playmaking ability to the offensive side and giving the Sooners another weapon to work with in the passing game.
The Sooners’ rich football tradition is built on family, commitment, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Keontez Lewis now has the opportunity to be a part of that tradition and continue the legacy that his cousin began. The Oklahoma Sooners have always been a place where players from all backgrounds and walks of life come to make their mark, and Lewis is ready to do just that.
What Keontez Lewis Brings to the Sooners
Keontez Lewis is not just another wide receiver — he’s a playmaker with the potential to be a difference-maker in the Sooners’ offense. His experience at Southern Illinois, combined with his physical traits and skill set, make him a perfect fit for Oklahoma’s up-tempo, high-powered offense. The Sooners are looking to take their offense to the next level, and adding a player of Lewis’ caliber will help them achieve that goal.
With a deep wide receiver group, including Marvin Mims and Jaden Gibson, and a highly efficient quarterback in Dillon Gabriel, Lewis will have the chance to showcase his skills and contribute right away. Whether it’s making big plays downfield, moving the chains on third down, or adding an explosive element to the passing game, Lewis has the tools to make an immediate impact for the Sooners.
Conclusion: A Legacy to Live Up To
Keontez Lewis may be following in the footsteps of his cousin, C.J. Coldon, but he’s not here just to follow — he’s here to make his own legacy at the University of Oklahoma. With a family history tied to the program and an undeniable talent on the field, Lewis has the potential to become one of the Sooners’ most exciting players in 2024 and beyond. Whether he’s making spectacular catches or contributing to a high-powered offense, Keontez Lewis is poised to help Oklahoma continue its tradition of success, while adding his own chapter to the team’s rich history.
