Former Oklahoma offensive lineman Savion Byrd, who participated in eight games and held four starts at left guard during the 2023 season, revealed his decision to enter the transfer portal. Byrd has committed to Southern Methodist University (SMU), becoming the latest addition to the roster alongside Nate Anderson, another former OU offensive lineman who recently pledged to join SMU.
Byrd, once a highly touted recruit hailing from Duncanville, TX, relinquished his starting position on the offensive line to Cayden Green, who also transferred out of Norman through the portal. With Byrd’s move to SMU, the Sooners face the challenge of replenishing their offensive line losses, particularly with the impending departures of left tackle Walter Rouse and right guard McKade Mettauer, whose eligibility will expire after the Alamo Bowl.
Furthermore, the absence of center Andrew Raym and right tackle Tyler Guyton, who opted out of the bowl game to prepare for the 2024 NFL Draft, adds to the reconstruction task. Jacob Sexton has already stepped in for Guyton at right tackle and is anticipated to shift to left tackle next season. Coach Bill Bedenbaugh secured the commitment of former Michigan State right tackle Spencer Brown earlier in the month, while the competition for the center position involves Troy Everett and Joshua Bates.
As the Sooners gear up for their entry into SEC play next year, guided by quarterback Jackson Arnold, there remains a considerable amount of work to be done in reshaping the offensive line to ensure a formidable front for the team.
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