Braydon Nelson Will Play for Oklahoma State vs. UCF
The offensive tackle returns to the lineup Saturday following his recovery from offseason knee surgery.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Football
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Oklahoma State football coach Eric Morris announced that Braydon Nelson will see playing time against UCF on Saturday. Nelson missed the start of the 2026 season while recovering from offseason knee surgery.
Why it matters
Nelson provides depth for an Oklahoma State offensive line that lost starting tackle Jacob Sexton to a season-ending lower leg injury during the opener against Tulsa. His return adds flexibility to a unit currently anchored by Shaun Torgeson and Ashton Lepo.
Jacob Sexton recorded only 6 plays before his season-ending lower leg injury during the opener against Tulsa. Braydon Nelson previously earned second team all-conference honors while playing at North Texas in 2025.
The players
Braydon Nelson
He is an offensive tackle who earned second team all-conference honors at North Texas before transferring to Oklahoma State.
Eric Morris
He serves as the head coach of the Oklahoma State football program.
Jacob Sexton
He is an Oklahoma State offensive tackle whose 2026 season ended early after a lower leg injury sustained against Tulsa.
Shaun Torgeson
He is a starting offensive tackle currently anchoring the Oklahoma State line.
Ashton Lepo
He is a starting offensive tackle who remains part of the primary rotation for the Cowboys.
The details
Nelson is currently listed at both left and right tackle on the team depth chart, allowing him to serve as a versatile option for the coaching staff. While Torgeson and Lepo are projected to start the contest, Morris confirmed all three players will see the field against UCF.
Timeline
2025: Braydon Nelson played as the starting left tackle for North Texas.
Two weeks ago: Braydon Nelson participated in practice sessions with the Oklahoma State Cowboys.
Saturday: Oklahoma State will play against UCF.
Season Trajectory
Nelson's return strengthens Oklahoma State's offensive front as the team navigates the mid-season schedule. His availability provides essential depth that influences the team's ability to maintain continuity in the trenches during the push for bowl eligibility.
Nelson will split time at both tackle positions, potentially reducing the workload for current starters Torgeson and Lepo. His participation adds a rotation piece that directly impacts the offensive line's stability for the remainder of the season.
The takeaway
The return of a veteran tackle provides Oklahoma State with critical depth as they manage lingering injuries on the offensive line. Fans should monitor the snap distribution on Saturday to see how the coaching staff integrates three primary tackles into the rotation.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's performance, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sports Illustrated.
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