Justin Wright: Back in Action

Linebacker Justin Wright has stepped back in between the white lines after missing 16 straight games with injuries.

In the 2023 season opener against Central Arkansas, Wright sustained a partial tear in his ACL and MCL. He still managed to return for the first conference game against Iowa State and recorded two tackles. Less than a week later, however, Wright's knee gave in during a bye week—a full ACL and MCL tear, ending his season.

"I learned a lot about myself in that rehab process, and especially with the initial injury when it happened," Wright said. "The days leading up to surgery where my mind was, I wasn't ready to be done playing football at this level or the next level."

Two games into his return, the Abilene, Texas, native is still working his way back up to full speed. Wright recorded two tackles, both solo stops, against Baylor last Saturday.

"When you don't play (in a game) for a year and a half, I practiced a bunch, but game speed, it's a lot different. There is a lot of rust that you have to knock off. I felt good against BYU, I was a little rusty, and then even this week, I was a lot better. I felt great, I still feel great," Wright said.

Defensive end Jaleel Johnson and the Cowboy defense welcomed back Wright with open arms. Johnson mentioned Wright's extensive experience and fearless playing style as what stands out to him the most.

"It's great. Justin's been in the game for a while. He knows what he's doing, he knows what to do. It's great to have him in this defense," Johnson said. "He's not scared to hit an offensive lineman. If he's blitzing, he'll go in there headfirst. He's not scared of any of it; he'll take somebody on."

After starting his collegiate career in 2018 with Tulsa, the 2020 and 2022 Second Team All-AAC member came to Oklahoma State well accomplished. With 32 starts as a Golden Hurricane, Wright tallied over 250 tackles, 27.5 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, four fumble recoveries, four interceptions, two forced fumbles, four pass breakups and eight quarterback hurries.

Wright's seven years of collegiate experience have made him a leader to younger players and veterans.

"The experiences I have gone through have put me in a position to handle these moments. By me being able to handle these moments, I can be a better leader to all the young guys. Even some of the other vets who get discouraged at times, I can pick them up," Wright said.

Despite the hardship the team has faced at times this season, Wright highlights the importance of not giving up.

"I've been a part of two-win seasons, three-win seasons; it's not easy, but you have to keep your head up and keep working," Wright said.

Wright can't wait to get back out on the field with his teammates inside Boone Pickens Stadium this Saturday for Homecoming.

"Feels great. Feels like I have another opportunity to play with all the guys I worked hard with in the offseason. I can't take it for granted," Wright said. "If these injuries have taught me anything, it is that every day, every rep, every second matters. I try to live it to the fullest."

Oklahoma State University Athletics

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