Oklahoma QB John Mateer expected to miss multiple weeks due to surgery
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Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer is expected to miss multiple weeks due to a hand injury.
Mateer is slated to undergo surgery on his throwing hand on Wednesday for an injury he suffered in OU’s win over Auburn. The Sooners announced that news on Tuesday afternoon.
“After consulting with medical experts, it became clear that surgery is the best option for John and his short- and long-term future,” head coach Brent Venables said in a statement. “He’s extremely disappointed he will miss some game action but is eager to correct the issue and move forward. As he is with everything, we know he will be aggressive with his rehabilitation and work to return to the field as quickly as possible.”
This is devastating news for both Oklahoma and Mateer. Since arriving from Washington State, Mateer has been one of the best quarterbacks in the country and has led the Sooners to a 4-0 start. He was one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy prior to this announcement.
Oklahoma will now turn to Michael Hawkins, who played significant snaps in 2024 as a true freshman and even won a road game at Auburn. Venables said in a statement that the program has full confidence in Hawkins moving forward.
“We have all the confidence in the world in Michael and are excited for his opportunity to lead our offense while John recovers,” Venables said in a statement. “He had some big moments for us last season as a true freshman and has just gotten better and better. I’m proud of the work Michael’s put in and the progress he’s made, and know he will attack this opportunity to help lead our football team.”
Last season, Hawkins completed 76-of-120 passes for 783 yards, 3 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. He also rushed for 204 yards and 1 touchdown.
Oklahoma is idle in Week 5 and then will host Kent State in Week 6. However, the Sooners will continue SEC play on Oct. 11 against Texas.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
