Sooners pull scholarship offer to Beyer
Oklahoma State recruit Matt Beyer had his scholarship offer pulled because he was recently diagnosed with the spinal-cord condition cervical stenosis, ending his playing career.
Beyer confirmed the news to SoonerNation Thursday night. He said he was told Tuesday by Oklahoma offensive tackles coach Bruce Kittle that the scholarship offer wouldn't be honored. Beyer committed July 2.
According to WebMD.com, the condition causes the spinal canal to narrow.
Beyer said he was born with the condition, and was told by doctors that there was a chance for permanent quadriplegia down the line if he continued playing.
"I was able to talk to Coach Kittle, and it was great to talk to him again," Beyer told SoonerNation. "I asked about my scholarship situation. He said the decision went above his head and as much as he would love to let me keep it, it's not possible."
The Sooners have honored scholarships for recruits with career-ending injuries in the past. After this year's national signing day, it was revealed that a back injury would end the career of signee Laith Harlow. He was given a medical scholarship and is now a freshman.
The difference with Beyer is that he had only verbally committed.
"That's kind of what it came down to," Beyer said. "It wasn't like I was signed. I was just too far away from being able to play. It hurts, but I understand completely."
