Oklahoma State faces the challenge of compensating for the absence of some key receivers from the previous season, but the team is prepared to address this gap.
Last season, the OSU offense was initially characterized by a three-way quarterback competition. Eventually, Alan Bowman emerged victorious and played a pivotal role in guiding OSU to a 10-win season, culminating in an appearance in the Big 12 Championship game.
While Bowman found synergy with Ollie Gordon in the backfield, the success of OSU’s passing game hinged significantly on the contributions of its receiving corps. Although returning stars like Brennan Presley will bolster the team next season, several key receivers from the previous campaign have departed from Stillwater.
One notable departure is Leon Johnson III, who chose to forego his remaining eligibility and redshirt status to provide OSU with an immediate impact midseason. Johnson appeared in 10 games, including the final eight matchups of the season.
While he showcased his talent with a notable 149-yard performance against Cincinnati, his most memorable contribution came in the regular-season finale against BYU. In that game, Johnson’s nine receptions for 132 yards played a pivotal role in OSU’s remarkable comeback victory, securing a berth in the Big 12 Championship game.
Another departure from the OSU receiving corps is Jaden Bray, who transferred to West Virginia after spending three seasons with the Cowboys. Bray’s move signifies a transition to a new chapter in his collegiate career, leaving OSU to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Following a productive freshman year where he tallied 250 yards and two touchdowns, Bray’s 2022 season was cut short due to injury, limiting him to just three games. However, he returned to the field in 2023 and made a notable impact for the Cowboys.
In the 2023 season, Bray featured in 10 games, recording at least 40 yards in six matchups, including a standout 77-yard performance against Kansas State.
While OSU will bid farewell to two of its top four receivers from the previous season, the anticipated return of De’Zhaun Stribling from injury could help offset these losses.
Moreover, with the team’s top two receivers, Presley and Rashod Owens, returning for the upcoming season, they are expected to shoulder a significant workload once again.
Although the return of key players will alleviate the departure of some top contributors, it also presents an opportunity for other receivers to step up, such as Talyn Shettron.
While the Cowboys’ receiver group will miss the impact of several key contributors from the previous season, there is optimism surrounding the potential production returning for the upcoming season.
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