Members of OSU’s 2016 Class Who Could Contribute As Freshmen

If Mike Gundy had his way, it would likely be his preference to have every freshman redshirt and sit on the sidelines to soak up the system and get to a playing weight that will make them competitive as sophomores. But Mike Gundy doesn’t always get what he wants. In 2015, he gave true freshmen Jalen McCleskey, Kenneth McGruder, Jeff Carr and Sugar Loaf Daniels ample playing time. Partly because of their phenomenal talents, and partly due to depth issues at their respective positions.

The 2016 season returns more experience and more depth at some of those positions, but there is still a chance that some true freshmen could break onto the scene for a team that could be loaded up for a Big 12 title run. Here’s a look at some of the members of the 2016 recruiting class who could break onto the scene as freshmen.

Tramonda Moore – Offensive Tackle

Moore was a last second welcome addition to the class, who could be a big-time contributor early on in Stillwater. There have been reports questioning his eligibility status and suggesting he may go the junior college route, but Mike Gundy says he’s on track to be on campus later in the summer. 6-6, 350-pounds to add to the offensive line? Freshman or not, that’s a big body who could play early.

Tyrell Alexander – Wide Receiver

Oklahoma State’s persistence with Alexander paid big dividends for the Pokes. After losing his commitment once in 2015, they nearly lost him to Arkansas just days before signing day. Now that he’s official, they can relish in the fact they will be bringing in one of the more underrated prospects in Texas. His 6-3 frame and freaky athleticism will earn rave reviews, despite his lack of experience at the position in high school. Even with the experience coming in next year, he’ll figure to mold some sort of role in the offense next year.

Calvin Bundage – Linebacker

Like Moore, Bundage was another last second addition who chose the Pokes over Oregon, Arizona, and others. The linebacker position may be a difficult position for a true freshman to play in, but with mainstay’s Ryan Simmons and Seth Jacobs moving on, he has a chance to join Jordan Burton and Devante Averette in the dynamic star position. He’s that good.

Madre Harper – Cornerback

Harper is almost a sure-fire bet to see the field the most out of the bunch. An early enrollee from Lamar High School, he has the tools and the size to potentially lock down a backup spot at cornerback. With the lack of depth returning next year, it may be a committee approach at cornerback at Harper figures into being a vital figure.

Tyler Brown – Offensive guard

Brown was one of several big in-state gets for the Cowboys this cycle from Lexington, OK, who they stole from TCU’s clutches last year. He is a 6-5, 330-pound guard who says the coaches expect him to compete for playing time right away. He’s a mean offensive guard – and one of the biggest needs is some big nasties in the middle. I like his chances.