OU to lean on Kip Lewis plus young linebackers with Owen Heinecke's appeal denied

NCAA Football: Louisiana State at Oklahoma — Nov 29, 2025; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables hugs Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Kip Lewis (10) after the game at against the Louisiana State Tigers Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

It appears that OU will be without linebacker Owen Heinecke next season. On Tuesday, the NCAA denied Heinecke's appeal for another year of eligibility. It's unclear if Heinecke will take legal action, though he is currently at the NFL Combine and appears to be focused on his professional career moving forward. That means the Sooners will have to rely on some young talent at linebacker next season.