NORMAN — The offensive line has been a top priority for OU football since the offseason began.

With Troy Everett, the Sooners’ expected starting center, sidelined for the duration of spring practice due to a right leg injury, head coach Brent Venables will rely on inexperienced players. Washington transfer Geirean Hatchett, who has played all five offensive line positions for the Huskies, is the obvious choice for Everett.

Hatchett, on the other hand, is dealing with an unexplained injury and has yet to practice. This spring, two players have worked out at center behind Everett: redshirt freshman Josh Bates, who did not play last season, and rookie Josh Aisosa.

“Josh Bates will slide in there and play some center, along with Josh Aisosa,” he said. “Then Geirean Hatchett can play center; he can play guard.”