Oklahoma LB Jordan Evans poised for breakout year with Shannon's status in doubt

Oklahoma linebacker Frank Shannon's pending suspension could push Jordan Evans into the spotlight.

Oklahoma has taken steps to suspend Shannon for a year, but the school has been unable to enforce the decision. In a news release on Monday, Oklahoma president David L. Boren said the school's internal disciplinary process has voted to remove Shannon for a violation of its Title IX policy, which covers sexual misconduct.

Evans started one game last year while Shannon was injured, against Texas Tech, and the inside linebacker had a career-high eight tackles and a pass breakup. He missed much of the second half of the season with an ankle injury, but recovered and started the spring game. Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Evans had a good spring and summer.