Oklahoma is taking significant steps to enhance safety at Owen Field after a recent player injury. Following an incident three weeks ago, the university will install padding around specific areas of the field.
Details of the Wall Padding Installation
The decision to install wall padding comes after wide receiver Keontez Lewis sustained an injury on October 4, 2025. During a game against Kent State, Lewis collided headfirst into a brick wall. This accident occurred when he attempted to catch a pass from quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., which was slightly overthrown.
Upcoming Enhancements
As part of the improvements, padding will be added to:
- Both end-zone walls
- Sideline walls outside the team bench areas
These safety measures are set to be completed in time for the forthcoming game between the No. 13 ranked Oklahoma Sooners and the No. 8 ranked Ole Miss on Saturday. The announcement was confirmed by a school spokesperson, following an initial report by the OU Daily, the university’s student newspaper.
Incident Overview
During the game against Kent State, Oklahoma achieved a decisive 44-0 victory. The injury raised immediate concerns among fans and coaching staff due to the proximity of the unpadded wall to the playing area. The lack of padding had been a long-standing issue, only brought into focus after Lewis’s injury.
Player Status Updates
Lewis was carted off the field after the incident, leading to discussions about the safety of the playing environment. While he managed to return to play the following week against Texas, he was unable to participate in the recent 26-7 victory over South Carolina. As of now, he has been listed as doubtful for the upcoming match against Ole Miss, according to the SEC injury report.
Oklahoma’s head coach, Brent Venables, noted that plans for increased safety measures began immediately after the injury occurred. The installation of wall padding reflects the school’s commitment to safeguarding the players and ensuring that similar incidents do not happen in the future.
