Oklahoma State’s Trace Ford overcame COVID-19 in July

Trace Ford generated plenty of buzz during his freshman season and has continued to do so during preseason camp.

The Oklahoma State sophomore defensive end added to the buzz Wednesday when he reveled he overcame COVID-19 in July and isn’t quite 100 percent yet as he’s working his way back into shape.

Ford was listed at 227 pounds last season then was up to 248 pounds in February, according to OSU’s roster.

“I had the symptoms — no taste, no smell, the headaches, the sweat, the chills,” he said according to The Oklahoman. “I got over it. Here I am now, so it’s all good.

“I’m weighing, like, 240 right now, so I’ve lost about eight pounds. I definitely got more out of shape. It’s been harder to breathe. I’m slowly getting back in better and better shape every day. But (COVID-19) definitely took a toll on my body.”

Ford had 29 tackles, including four for loss, and three sacks in 13 games in 2019. He also had an interception, five pass breakups and nine quarterback hurries. His performance earned him honorable mention All-Big 12 honors and votes for Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.

OSU is scheduled to open its 2020 season against Tulsa on Sept. 12 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater.