Sport: College Sports Category: Scores & Results

Oklahoma offensive linemen Ryan Fodje and Jake Maikkula show injury recovery progress

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 11:03 AM

Last updated Sep 2, 2026

Oklahoma offensive linemen Ryan Fodje and Jake Maikkula show injury recovery progress

Summary

Oklahoma offensive linemen Ryan Fodje and Jake Maikkula returned to practice this week following injuries. Maikkula participated as a full participant, while Fodje practiced in a limited capacity after a negative MRI result. The program expects both players to remain sidelined for the upcoming UTEP game as a precautionary measure. Their absence coincides with the team preparing for a matchup against the No. 16 Michigan Wolverines. In their place, Caleb Nitta is scheduled to start at center, while Heath Ozaeta and Noah Best continue to compete for snaps at guard. The coaching staff anticipates the return of both Fodje and Maikkula for the road trip to Ann Arbor.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Ryan Fodje and Jake Maikkula returned to practice following recent injuries.
•Both linemen are expected to miss the game against UTEP.
•Caleb Nitta will start at center against UTEP.
•Heath Ozaeta and Noah Best are competing for the starting guard position.
•The team expects both Fodje and Maikkula to play against the Michigan Wolverines.

Latest Updates

11:03 AMYahoo Sports — Oklahoma Sooners receive good news on injured offensive linemen
10:00 AMSports Illustrated — Injuries? What Injuries? Oklahoma Offensive Line Gets a Double Shot of Good News - Sports Illustrated

What they're saying

"
The Sooners had an uncomfortable but brief run of injuries up front, and both returned to the practice field quicker than expected.
— Sports Illustratedby John Hoover