On a day when Oklahoma State added a load of new talent for 2022, it appears to be losing a key piece of its vaunted 2021 defense.

According to a report by Mike Roach of 247 Sports, redshirt sophomore defensive tackle Jayden Jernigan is planning to enter the NCAA’s transfer portal. He has three years of eligibility remaining.

After a productive freshman season in 2019, Jernigan had to sit out all of 2020 thanks to COVID-19. He missed total 618 days of football due to heart complications after contracting the virus.

Jernigan appeared in all 13 games for the Cowboys this season, recording 19 total tackles (13 solo), two tackles for loss and one sack. He also logged five QB hurries and forced a fumble.

Earlier this season, Mike Gundy praised his ability to bounce back.

“I was getting concerned at the latter part of last season whether he was ever going to play again,” Gundy said. “His body was not as strong as what it was, he was losing weight, he wasn’t in the flow, his doctors, for the right reasons, weren’t letting him do much.

“He’s really improved in his pass rush skills. He’s understanding now what his strengths are — his quickness. He’s using his quickness and ability to move side to side. . . He’s had a turnaround. He’s doing a really good job, playing a big role in the success of the defense.”

This marks the second member of the 11-2 Cowboys that is looking for other opportunities. Earlier in December, offensive tackle Hunter Anthony also announced his intention to enter the portal.

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