Oklahoma State Cowboys are entering the second week of fall camp, and the first scrimmage looms as the first real test of how the new coaching staff will shape the roster.
Key Competitions
The edge‑rusher battle features a cluster of candidates — Jaleel Johnson, James Williams, Keviyan Huddleston, Malik Charles and DeSean Brown — while Carl’Veon Brown is being watched as a potential wildcard.
At left tackle, the staff must decide quickly between returning veteran Braydon Nelson, whose recovery timeline is still uncertain, and younger options such as Jacob Sexton and Ashton Lepo who could be thrust into the starting role.
Depth concerns also surface at cornerback, where only six experienced players are available, and at tight end, a group of six with just two projected starters, while quarterback depth is threatened by the injury to Drew Mestemaker.
Despite those thin spots, the Cowboys enjoy strong numbers at running back, wide receiver, the offensive line and linebacker, giving the coaching staff flexibility as they sort out the pecking order.
A new five‑for‑five eligibility rule now allows freshmen to appear in up to five games over five years, simplifying the competition calculus for newcomers like wide receivers Jabarie Thornton and Dayvon Standard, running back KD Jones, and the promising Braeden Presley, younger brother of former OSU standout Brennan Presley.
The upcoming scrimmage will finally reveal how these storylines unfold on the field, offering early clues about the Cowboys’ defensive front and the offensive line’s ability to adapt to new personnel.