This summer, ESPN.com is taking a closer look at each scholarship player on the Oklahoma Sooners' roster in our Crimson Countdown series. Each day, we analyze each player’s impact on the program since arriving on campus, his potential impact this fall and his long-term projection. Starting with No. 1 Dominique Alexander, the series follows the roster numerically through No. 98 Chuka Ndulue.
No. 85 Geneo Grissom, linebacker, 6-foot-4, 252 pounds, senior
Impact thus far: It’s been a roller-coaster career for Grissom but he seems to finally be getting comfortable. He redshirted in 2010, then saw spot duty while playing five games as a redshirt freshman. In 2012 he made the move to tight end before the season and remained on the offensive side of the ball until midway through the season when he returned to defensive end, playing in 12 games as a sophomore. Last season was a breakout year for Grissom, particularly during the final half of the season. He started five games and was outstanding in the Sugar Bowl win with 2.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries, including an 8-yard touchdown return in the win.
Impact in 2014: He’s made the move to linebacker, becoming a more versatile option on Mike Stoops’ defense. Grissom should be a key contributor to the Sooners with his athleticism and pass-rush skills.
Long-term upside: Grissom has all-conference potential, particularly if he adapts well to his new position.
Evaluation grade for Grissom: A. Grissom was highly regarded out of high school and has NFL-level talent. Now that he’s starting to maximize his upside, he looks like a terrific evaluation.
Development grade for Grissom: C. The Sooners didn’t do Grissom any favors by moving him around. He’s played several positions as the Sooners tried to find him a home, which is good and bad. Ultimately Grissom and the Sooners probably would have been better off if he had found a home earlier in his career.
