Recent Oklahoma Sooners transfer portal decision likely confirms what we already knew for the team in 2026
Oklahoma Sooners backup quarterback Michael Hawkins hit the transfer portal, likely signaling that John Mateer will be back next season
The Oklahoma Sooners have been active in the transfer portal, both in pursuing players from other rosters and churning their own in an effort to continue their championship hopes for 2026. One of those departures from their own roster just hit on Wednesday morning, and it signals news that many of us had already suspected for next season.
Michael Hawkins Gone, John Mateer Back
Hawkins appeared in nine games for the Sooners, starting in four games in replacing Jackson Arnold in 2024 and making an appearance for John Mateer in 2025 when Mateer missed time due to a hand injury. Hawkins completed just 61.9% of his passes in an Oklahoma uniform for 950 yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions. Known more for his rushing ability than passing, Hawkins preserved his redshirt this year in an effort to earn a starting job elsewhere next season.
His departure likely points to the return of John Mateer as Oklahoma’s quarterback in 2026, given that Hawkins would likely be involved in the competition to start at Oklahoma next season if Mateer were to leave. Him entering the portal is a likely domino effect of Mateer making his decision to remain a Sooner for 2026 instead of entering the NFL Draft. We’re still awaiting official word from Mateer, but we can infer here.
This will leave a spot open in Oklahoma’s quarterback room. However, myself, and many others, expect Hawkins’ role as the primary backup to be filled by true freshman Bowe Bentley, a recruit everyone in Sooner Nation is buzzing about. I wouldn’t necessarily be surprised if staff tries to pursue some more experienced options in the portal just in case of another injury to Mateer, but they are internally very high on Bentley, so they might simply elect to focus elsewhere in the meantime.
Oklahoma Sooners News
Sooners transfer portal tracker: Who has transferred in and out of Oklahoma’s 2026 roster?
The Sooners have already had some players transfer out.
