Crimson Countdown: No. 13 J.J. Hester
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No.13 J.J. Hester
2022 stats: Played in three games and recorded one reception for 13 yards.
2023 outlook:
Since his arrival from Columbia, J.J. Hester has yet to catch a break. Sidelined by injury a year ago the Tulsa native begins his second season with the Sooners battling through yet another preseason injury. When healthy, Hester figures to be in the mix for playing time. There’s plenty of opportunity in the wide receiver room as Oklahoma looks to replace the now departed Marvin Mims.
Hester starred at Tulsa Booker T. Washington in high school before ultimately signing with Missouri. But the question remains: can he stay healthy enough to get on the field? That’ll be the biggest hurdle for the former Tiger as he enters his second full season with the Sooners.
2023 wide receiver outlook:
The position seems to be coming into focus as Oklahoma breaks preseason camp. Jalil Farooq, Drake Stoops and Gavin Freeman are the known returners that are expected to be mainstays in the Sooners receiving corps. Andrel Anthony has made waves early with second year receivers Nic Anderson and Jayden Gibson also coming along. Jaquaize Pettaway should figure into the mix as well having made a name for himself throughout the preseason as just a freshman.
