Jaydn Ott Injury Update
Jaydn Ott, now the presumptive starting running back for the Oklahoma Sooners, is working through a minor injury sustained during early fall camp. The specifics haven’t been publicly detailed, but reports are consistent: Ott’s injury is not considered serious. Sources on the ground said that he was dressed out with teammates, running through rehab exercises at practice instead of taking live reps. In an update shared by @ParkerThune on X, it was noted that Oklahoma running backs Jaydn Ott, Xavier Robinson, and Taylor Tatum are all dealing with minor injuries.
The program’s medical staff—and coach Brent Venables—are being particularly cautious, especially after last season’s rash of injuries decimated the running back room. Ott is expected to be fully healthy in time for Oklahoma’s season opener against Illinois State on August 30. The tone around the team is pretty calm and careful, no urgency, just a focus on getting him 100% for the real games.
How Did Jaydn Ott’s Injury Happen?
Ott’s current setback happened during preseason practice. There was no major incident or dramatic moment—it’s been described as a “minor” shoulder issue by Sooner beat writers, with Ott participating in some drills, just not full contact. During Wednesday’s practice, Oklahoma running back Jaydn Ott was notably limited in his participation. As highlighted by @RotoWireCFB on X, his involvement was scaled back, suggesting the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach.
Oklahoma is keeping exact details under wraps, probably to avoid tipping its hand before the season starts. Some context: Ott came to Oklahoma after a tough 2024 campaign at Cal marred by a high ankle sprain and a knee tweak, which lingered for much of that year. Those previous injuries are healed; this new shoulder issue just seems to be a run-of-the-mill camp knock.
Jaydn Ott Stats
Ott’s body of work in three collegiate seasons is impressive—and why Oklahoma made him their transfer priority. Here’s the career snapshot:
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2022 (Cal): 12 games, 170 carries, 897 yards (5.3 avg), 8 TDs; 46 receptions, 321 yards, 3 TDs.
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2023 (Cal): 12 games, 246 carries, 1,315 yards (5.3 avg), 12 TDs; 25 receptions, 169 yards, 2 TDs.
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2024 (Cal, injury-shortened): 10 games, 116 carries, 385 yards (3.3 avg), 4 TDs; 24 receptions, 222 yards, 1 TD.
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Career totals: 34 games, 532 carries, 2,597 yards (4.9 avg), 24 rushing TDs; 95 catches, 712 yards, 6 receiving TDs.
Who is Jaydn Ott?
Jaydn Ott grew up in Chino, California, before starring at Norco High School. After shifting around (including a stint at Bishop Gorman in Nevada), he committed to Cal and made an immediate impact. Ott was quickly recognized as one of the Pac-12’s most talented runners, earning Freshman All-American honors and then all-conference honors as a sophomore.
A strong, decisive back with real receiving skill, Ott transferred to Oklahoma for his senior season, seeking a fresh start and a chance to compete on a national stage. Standing 6’0”, about 200 pounds, Ott’s reputation is built on his vision, quickness, and “runs angry” style. He’s also pretty candid, describing the culture shift between Cal and Oklahoma as significant: “These guys care... There are levels,” he said, contrasting the Sooners’ intensity with his experience at Cal.
Ott is now a vital piece of Oklahoma’s revamped offense under new coordinator Ben Arbuckle, who knows firsthand how dangerous Ott can be, having seen him torch Washington State for 167 yards two seasons back. Ott’s on track to be the Sooners’ RB1, so keeping him healthy this August is priority one for Oklahoma as they head into a pivotal season.
