Bradford's durability in question

Bradford's return to Oklahoma turns into disaster

Injured QB probably hurt NFL chances

By Bob MatthewsBradford won the 2008 Heisman Trophy as a redshirt sophomore last season, and in the opinion of many pro football scouts, he would have been No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 draft had he not opted to return to Oklahoma for his junior season. He was rated higher than Georgia QB Matthew Stafford, who was chosen No. 1 by the Detroit Lions.

Bradford suffered a right shoulder separation in Oklahoma's first game this season and missed three full games. He returned Oct. 11 against Baylor and played well in a 33-7 home victory but reinjured the shoulder early in Saturday's 16-13 loss to Texas.

No one knows how much Bradford's shoulder problem will hurt his future NFL draft status, but his durability now is a huge question mark. He could opt to return to Oklahoma next season to prove his shoulder is sound and regain his status as a potential No. 1 overall pick. If he enters the 2010 draft, he probably wouldn't be a top-five selection. Seniors Tim Tebow and/or Colt McCoy might be safer picks than an injury-prone Bradford.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Bradford the Messiah? and Basking in Bradford's Glow.