The Football Brainiacs

The Path to Norman

Caleb Kelly was offered by Oklahoma almost two years before his signing day. The incredibly talented California linebacker had his pick of schools from all around the nation. As time went on, his relationship with newly returned Coach Chip Viney appeared to be more and more important to the young man. Notre Dame and OU were two of the biggest competitors for his services right up to signing day. On signing day itself via a live stream, Caleb Kelly let it be known that he’d be heading to Norman.

Career So Far

Playing time was slow to come for Kelly his freshman season. Despite playing well in his appearances, he played sparingly at first. Towards the middle of the season, his playing time at the outside linebacker spot began to increase and he started in several games. 

His sophomore campaign, Caleb played in all 14 games, starting in 13. Kelly was a leader for the defense, although many wished to see him have even more opportunities to shine. The 2017 season earned him an All-Big 12 honorable mention selection. 

2018 was an up and down season for Caleb. Although he played in 12 of the 14 games, it seemed that the staff couldn’t figure out how best to play him. However, he came on strong in the second half of the season, starting in the final five games and was easily one of the Sooners’ best defenders over that stretch. 

Another weird season came in 2019. After sustaining an injury before the season, Kelly sat out for the first 10 games of the year. He played in the final four games, splitting time with DaShaun White at the WILL linebacker spot. Once again, he shone at times during that final stretch of the year. 

Unfortunately, Kelly was injured once again the next season and missed all of 2020.

Current Profile

Position: Linebacker

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 232

Year: Redshirt Senior

Stats

Stats via Soonersports.com

Highlights

This Season

Caleb Kelly is entering his sixth season as a Sooner. He’s seen injuries, position changes, and a handful of coaches. The whole time, he has remained one of the easiest players to root for in recent memory. Throughout the offseason, TFB has reported the high level of leadership he brings to the team. This season, he is expected back at inside backer. Linebacker is one of the deepest position groups on the field for OU; David Ugwoegbu and Brian Asamoah are expected to start, former starters DaShaun White and Kelly are expected to play frequently, and young talent like Danny Stutsman and Shane Whitter will provide depth. In his last season in Norman, OU fans will be cheering for an exciting exit performance for Caleb Kelly.