Oklahoma Running Back Suffers Injury During Spring Practice

Brent Venables confirms Xavier Robinson is dealing with a 'little strain' as younger backs get more reps.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:35am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football practice scene, with players' bodies and equipment broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric forms in a vibrant color palette.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the intensity and physicality of a football practice, with players' movements deconstructed into geometric shapes and planes.Norman Today

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has confirmed that running back Xavier Robinson suffered a minor injury during the Sooners' spring practice on March 28. Robinson was seen in a walking boot and using crutches, but Venables said his recovery is going well and the younger running backs are getting more opportunities while he recovers.

Why it matters

Robinson is a key part of Oklahoma's backfield, finishing second on the team in rushing yards last season. Any injury to a top player like Robinson could impact the Sooners' offensive plans heading into the 2026 season, so the coaching staff will be closely monitoring his recovery.

The details

Robinson's apparent injury occurred during a QB-running back exchange drill, when he stopped and appeared to be in pain after taking a handoff. He was not present with the running back group for the remainder of the media viewing session that day. Two days later, Robinson was seen in a boot and did not participate in practice. On Tuesday, he was again in a walking boot and using crutches, but was fully dressed in pads as players left the field.

  • On March 28, Robinson was injured during Oklahoma's spring practice.
  • On March 30, Robinson was seen in a boot at the beginning of another media viewing window.
  • On April 4, Robinson was seen in a walking boot and using crutches after practice.

The players

Brent Venables

The head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners football team.

Xavier Robinson

A running back for the Oklahoma Sooners who is recovering from a minor injury suffered during spring practice.

Tory Blaylock

A true freshman running back for the Oklahoma Sooners who was also hampered by injuries last season.

Lloyd Avant

A Colorado State transfer running back who has impressed early in Oklahoma's spring practice.

Deland McCullough

The new running backs coach for the Oklahoma Sooners.

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What they’re saying

“Robinson had suffered a 'little strain,' but that Robinson's recovery is going 'good' and that the younger backs are getting more opportunities as he recovers.”

— Brent Venables, Head Coach

What’s next

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The takeaway

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