Exclusive: Key Oklahoma Sooners WR Deion Burks Gets Real on Big Change After Injury-Filled Season as he vow’s to make it happen like before” puting Brent Venables into deep suspect.. here’s his full words…
NORMAN, Okla. – After a turbulence-ridden 2024, Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Deion Burks is stepping into the 2025 campaign with a renewed mindset and one clear message: health comes first.
“A lot of challenges… I’ve got to take care of my body better,” Burks admitted during a Thursday press conference, per ClutchPoints. “I can’t just… go out there and think I can just run like a machine. Maybe take my process more seriously and take care of my body.”
The Injury-Plagued 2024: A Tough First Year in Norman
Burks entered the 2024 season with massive expectations after a standout 2023 at Purdue—where he logged 47 catches for 629 yards and seven touchdowns. But Oklahoma’s first year in the SEC proved difficult. A soft tissue injury suffered in Week 4 against Tennessee caused him to miss the majority of the season. Out of 13 games, he appeared in only five, yet still managed 31 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns.
A Fresh Start: Returning Stronger for 2025
Thankfully for the Sooners, Burks isn’t only medically cleared but fully committed to returning for his senior season. He made the announcement himself, even revealing a jersey change—from No. 6 to No. 4—during a meeting with head coach Brent Venables and staff. “Easy decision,” he said, emphasizing his belief in the team and leadership .
With the new season underway, Offensive Coordinator Ben Arbuckle is visibly excited. “Deion is explosive… It’s going to be fun to figure out how to get the ball in his hands in an assortment of different ways,” he said. Arbuckle also praised Burks’ quick grasp of the new offense during spring workouts, crediting his film study and football IQ.
Quarterback John Mateer chimed in too: “I’m super proud of Deion… he had a rough year last year on and off the field, but he’s super promising. He cares a lot about football and he cares a lot about the Sooners.”
Why Burks Could Be the X-Factor in the Sooners’ Passing Game
Oklahoma’s receiving room has undergone transformation over the offseason. Alongside Burks are new additions like Isaiah Sategna (Arkansas), Javonnie Gibson (Arkansas-Pine Bluff), and Jer’Michael Carter, along with a talented group of younger receivers.
An insightful preview from Heartland Sports underscores just how vital Burks can be: “If healthy… Burks might be the wild card that transforms Oklahoma’s aerial attack… a legitimate home-run threat with game-breaking speed.” Analysts say he offers explosiveness no other Sooner receiver can fully replicate .
On3’s season preview further highlights Burks’s importance: despite limited time on the field in 2024, he ranked second in receptions and third in yards for Oklahoma. With Mateer known for his deep-ball prowess, Burks’ ability to stretch defenses could be unlocked this season .
What’s Next for Deion Burks?
Stay healthy and available: That remains the top priority, both for Burks and the Sooners.
Be the go-to weapon: With his experience and explosiveness, Burks is poised to be Mateer’s favorite target.
Deliver impact plays: A shift in offensive philosophy under Arbuckle should allow him to showcase his game-breaking ability consistently.
As Oklahoma looks to shake off a rocky inaugural SEC season, Burks symbolizes a resurgence—driven equally by determination and opportunity. If health holds, the No. 4 could become a nightmare for opposing defenses in 2025.
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