- Oklahoma Sooners Defensive Back Arrested on Wednesday
In a concerning development for the Oklahoma Sooners football program, redshirt junior defensive back Damond Harmon was arrested on Wednesday, June 28th, 2024, in Norman, Oklahoma. The arrest comes just weeks before the start of the 2024 college football season and could have significant implications for both Harmon and the Sooners’ secondary.
### Details of the Arrest
According to the Norman Police Department, Harmon was taken into custody on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. The arrest occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, with Harmon being booked into the Cleveland County Jail shortly after.
“We are aware of the situation involving Damond Harmon and are gathering more information,” the Oklahoma athletic department said in a statement. “We take these matters very seriously and will handle it appropriately once all the details have been assessed.”
Harmon’s Importance to the Sooners’ Defense
Damond Harmon was expected to play a significant role in the Oklahoma secondary this season, having started 11 games for the Sooners in 2023. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound defensive back recorded 45 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups last year, emerging as one of the team’s top defensive playmakers.
With the departure of several key contributors from last year’s defense, including All-Big 12 cornerback Woodi Washington, Harmon’s experience and talent were seen as crucial to the Sooners’ success in 2024. His potential absence could leave a significant void in the secondary and force head coach Brent Venables to shuffle his lineup and depth chart.
Potential Consequences for Harmon and the Team
The charges Harmon is facing, particularly the DUI, could result in serious consequences for the player and the team. In Oklahoma, a first-offense DUI can carry penalties of up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a license suspension of 180 days to one year.
Additionally, the university and the football program may impose their own disciplinary measures, which could range from a suspension to dismissal from the team, depending on the severity of the incident and Harmon’s prior conduct record.
“This is a disappointing situation, but we will work through it as a team,” Venables said in a statement. “We have high standards for our student-athletes, and we expect them to represent our program and university with integrity at all times.”
The Timing of the Arrest
The timing of Harmon’s arrest, just weeks before the start of the season, is particularly concerning for the Sooners. The team is set to open its 2024 campaign against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane on September 2nd, and any prolonged absence or suspension for Harmon could have a significant impact on the team’s preparations and performance.
Moreover, the arrest comes at a time when the Sooners are looking to build on their success from last season, which saw them finish 10-3 and earn a berth in the Alamo Bowl. With high expectations for the 2024 campaign, the program will need to navigate this situation carefully to minimize the potential fallout and maintain focus on the field.
The arrest of Damond Harmon is a significant setback for the Oklahoma Sooners football program as it prepares for the 2024 season. The charges he faces, particularly the DUI, could result in serious consequences for both the player and the team, and the timing of the incident adds to the concern.
However, as Venables stated, the Sooners will work through this situation as a team. The program has high standards for its student-athletes, and it will be crucial for Harmon and his teammates to learn from this experience and move forward in a positive manner.
Ultimately, the success of the 2024 Oklahoma Sooners will depend on their ability to overcome adversity and maintain focus on the field. While the Harmon situation is undoubtedly a challenge, the team has the talent and leadership to navigate it and continue its pursuit of a Big 12 championship and beyond.