Crimson countdown: No. 26 Kani Walker
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. 26 Kani Walker
2022 stats: Six games, three tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss.
2022 stats: Six games, three tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss.
2023 outlook:
OK, let’s get Walker healthy. It’s hard to evaluate anything Walker has done since arriving from Louisville. Because if it isn’t one thing, it’s been another.
Everybody loves his size. You just don’t see cornerbacks that big who can still move the way you need a cornerback to do on a regular basis.
Cornerbacks coach Jay Valai has been excited about Walker for a long time, but it’s just about everything coming together as it pertains to opportunity and health.
There are some young and hungry corners in the room, so Walker has his work cut out for him. But you’d have to think he has that chip on his shoulder after the way the 2021 and 2022 seasons have gone. The deeper the room, the better. Walker is eyeing a much bigger role.
2023 cornerback outlook
Oklahoma returns one of its most veteran defensive starters in redshirt senior Woodi Washington. But across from Washington will be one of the more anticipated position battles of fall camp. Sophomore Gentry Williams and JUCO transfer Kendel Dolby appear to be the frontrunners for the job. But true freshmen Jasiah Wagoner and Makari Vickers were impressive in the spring and could fight for the opening. Cornerbacks coach Jay Valai has done a nice job retooling that room after the departures of C.J. Coldon and Jaden Davis.
