Oklahoma DE D.J. Ward out for 6 weeks after having spleen removed

NORMAN, Okla. – Oklahoma defensive end D.J. Ward had his spleen removed Tuesday and coach Bob Stoops says it will be about a six-week recovery process for the freshman from Moore.

Stoops announced the surgery while meeting with reporters Tuesday. He says Ward had an enlarged spleen and that doctors "felt the need to remove it." He says it "had nothing to do with contact or anything."

Ward had not practiced with the Sooners during the preseason. He was expected to contribute to a defensive line that's short on experience entering the season opener Aug. 31 against Louisiana-Monroe.

Stoop says it hasn't yet been decided if Ward would redshirt this season or try to come back.