Sooners' Ben Habern ends football career

Aug 2, 2012 - 12:22 AM Norman, OK (Sports Network) - Oklahoma Sooners senior center Ben Habern has opted to conclude his playing career, head coach Bob Stoops announced on Wednesday.

Habern started 30 games during his time with Oklahoma but decided to step away from the game due to lingering neck and back concerns.

"Our coaching staff knows this was a difficult decision for Ben," Stoops said. "Ben has been a consummate leader for our team, both on and off the field. We appreciate the toughness that Ben has displayed, and we wish him the very best as he completes his education at OU."

Also on Wednesday, Stoops announced that Trey Franks, Quentin Hayes and Jaz Reynolds were reinstated to the roster for practice, although all three players will remain indefinitely suspended from appearing in games.

Kameel Jackson was not reinstated and his suspension will be reviewed at the end of the current academic session.