Injuries are an unfortunate reality in football, but for Kendel Dolby, the support of his coaches and teammates made all the difference. The Oklahoma defensive back suffered a season-ending ankle fracture early in the year, cutting short what had been a promising season. As he faced one of the toughest moments in his career, head coach Brent Venables and co-defensive coordinator Jay Valai made sure he knew he wasn’t alone.
Coaches Brent Venables and Jay Valai Stood Beside Kendel Dolby
During a recent interview with The Ref Sports Radio Network, Dolby shared the encouraging words he received from his coaching staff after his injury. Venables and Valai reassured him that everything would be okay. “Don’t worry, everything is going to be fine. We love you, this team loves you,” Dolby recalled them saying.
He also mentioned that Coach Venables remained confident in his future, telling him, “Man, you’re going to play football for a long time.” That support was invaluable as Dolby worked through the recovery process.
Kendel Dolby suffered a season-ending injury against Tennessee, and he’ll never what Brent Venables and Jay Valai said to him, during the most difficult time of his playing career.
“Coach V told me, man, you’re going to play football for a long time.” pic.twitter.com/nLQO7J44Zb
— The REF (@KREFsports) February 27, 2025
The senior defensive back had started three of Oklahoma’s first four games at the Cheetah position before the injury sidelined him for the season. Before that, he had been a key contributor to the Sooners’ defense, tallying 10 tackles, a tackle for loss, a quarterback hurry, and a pass breakup.
Despite the setback, Dolby announced on social media that he will return to Oklahoma for the 2025 season, providing a major boost to the Sooners’ secondary. His return will add more experience and talent to a unit that will also feature returning safety Robert Spears-Jennings.
Key defensive players, including linebackers Kip Lewis and Kobie McKinzie, as well as defensive linemen Gracen Halton, Jayden Jackson, David Stone, and Damonic Williams, will also play beside him.
With Dolby back, Oklahoma’s defense is shaping up to be formidable in the 2025 season. His return comes amid uncertainty in the coaching staff following defensive coordinator Zac Alley’s departure from West Virginia.
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However, the Sooners remain optimistic, with more potential roster news on the horizon. Defensive end Mason Thomas has yet to announce his plans, and Spears-Jennings hinted that more positive updates could be coming soon, posting on social media, “and we not done.”
For Dolby, the journey back to the field is just beginning, but with the unwavering support of his coaches and teammates, his future remains bright.
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