After missing all but two games of the 2019 season due to a torn ACL, Gumbs suffered another setback before the start of the 2020 campaign, suffering a hamstring injury that cost him the entire season.

Having not played since Oregon State’s road contest against Hawaii in the second game of the season in 2019, the biggest challenge in front of Gumbs is simply getting back on the field and having a consistent rhythm.

You’d have to go back to the 2017 season, when Gumbs was a true-freshman at Oklahoma, to see the last time he had extended run on the field when he appeared in four games and recorded eight tackles, half a tackle for loss, and one pass breakup.

Heading into the 2021 campaign, are Gumbs’ injury woes finally behind him?

While some may take pause when seeing Gumbs inside the Top 25 given the fact that he hasn’t played for the Beavers in nearly two years, but his potential continues to be off the charts and that’s more than enough to land him inside this list.

If Gumbs can stay healthy, he’d be a force at the position as he’s unique amongst the outside ‘backers with his blend of size, speed, strength, & athleticism.

Oregon State doesn’t often secure players with his credentials and potential abilities, so getting him on the field is going to go a long way in the Beavers wielding a defense that takes the next step.

The good news for both Gumbs & Oregon State is that all signs are that he’s well on his way toward being available for the team this season.

During spring, Gumbs was able to return to limited individual work with the hope of being ready for full 11-on-11 by the start of fall camp. Based on what we were able to see in the few weeks of spring, he’s getting closer and closer to being back in the mix.

If Gumbs can stay healthy and on the field, and that’s a big if, I could see him having a very strong 2021 campaign where he can let loose and be the edge rusher that strikes fear in opponents.

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