NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Starting defensive end Ronnell Lewis has been cleared to play for top-ranked Oklahoma this season.
Sooners coach Bob Stoops announced that Lewis was declared eligible Thursday after what he called a “difficult process.”
Lewis’ eligibility has been a lingering question for Oklahoma leading into this season. The decision finally came two days before the season opener Saturday against Tulsa.
Lewis missed several practices due to what Stoops termed family issues and one for a friend’s funeral.
A converted linebacker, Lewis started the last four games of last season at defensive end. He finished the season with 37 tackles and 3 1/2 sacks. Defensive coordinator Brent Venables called the junior “the best defensive end that we have.”
