Five Players Poised to Break Out in 2016 Spring Practice

After finishing second place in the Big 12 and many of the key pieces of the 2015 roster still intact, Oklahoma State is once again gearing up for a big season with big expectations. The Cowboys bring back a wealth of experience as well as some intriguing players either coming off redshirt or returning from injury whose names you may not know.

Not to fear, K. Boone is here to fill you in. Here’s five guys to keep an eye on as spring practice approaches.

Keenen Brown – Wide Receiver

Brown is listed on the OSU roster at 6-3, 205-lbs., after coming in as part of the 2014 recruiting class as one of the most heralded receivers from the Houston area at 6-3, 180. He’s unfortunately struggled with injury issues after red-shirting his freshman year, but he is a tantalizing talent whose bound to break out – either in the spring or when fall rolls around. With the departure of Brandon Sheperd, there’s playing time to be had outside, and he could be the guy to come out of nowhere.

Johnny Wilson – Offensive line

Wilson played guard and center in high school, and the coaches seem to like him at the center position, where he’ll compete with Brad Lundblade for the starting gig. He came in around 270-lbs., but a redshirt year has him closer to 300. Which is just where they want him. Whether he takes the job is yet to be seen, but he’s done his work as a true freshman in taking full advantage of redshirting and beefing up.

Jarrell Owens – Defensive End

Owens saw spot duty in 2015 and broke the rotation, making several impact plays and flashing some big upside in the shadow of Emmanuel Ogbah. With both Jimmy Bean, Emmanuel Ogbah and Trace Clark all gone, there’s playing time to be had. And the big man from Palestine, Texas will get his shot this year along with his fellow redshirt freshmen standouts Jordan Brailford and Trey Carter. Owens, a former high school running back, has the work ethic of Ogbah with a killer instinct. If I’m taking early bets, Brailford and Owens will be starting on opposite ends once the fall rolls around. They may be young at defensive end, but with Owens and Brailford, OSU fans should feel comfortable with very promising talent. Both kids are going to be stars.

Kevin Henry – Linebacker

Henry was a highly touted recruit from The Boot who was able to red-shirt last season. He was a star safety/linebacker in high school, and his versatility is a Glenn Spencer dream. He should get some run in the star linebacker position with Jordan Burton and Devante Averette. He’s got the speed to be a very intriguing player to breakout given his talent and size.

Lemaefe Galea’i – Offensive Guard

Galea’i broke through the rotation last season and saw limited playing time, but I’m projecting him to be a big-time breakout player in 2016 – because the Pokes desperately need it. He has the size to contribute at the guard spot, and all 6-5, 325-pounds of him makes him an easy projection. He’s had two years in the system, now is the time when Body by Glass starts paying big dividends. This guy is going to be a monster.