Fall camp kicks off July 30 in Norman, and Oklahoma enters with renewed focus as it gears up for Year 2 in the SEC. The main talk of the off-season has been all about John Mateer. The Washington State transfer brings experience, poise, and an obvious perfect fit for new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle’s up-tempo system. While Mateer’s stats were impressive last season at Washington State, it will be interesting to see if he can translate that kind of play into the SEC.
The running back room is loaded, and it’ll be fascinating to see how the depth chart shakes out. I do expect Cal transfer Jaydn Ott to be the starter, but it gets interesting after that. Returning backs Jovantae Barnes, Xavier Robinson, and Taylor Tatum will be a toss up at RB2. Head coach Brent Venables has mentioned that Barnes has played a big role in helping Ott transition to Oklahoma, so that veteran leadership may be something that ultimately gives Barnes the nod.
At wide receiver, Deion Burks headlines a group searching for consistency after an injury-filled 2024. He’ll need help, and camp reps will be critical in identifying reliable second and third options. Can Jayden Gibson bounce back from injury and provide a big spark? What about transfers Javonnie Gibson, Isaiah Sategna, and Jer’Michael Carter?
None of this is going to matter if the Sooners are not solid up front. All eyes are on left tackle Jacob Sexton and a line that needs to gel quickly after a disappointing showing last season. How well the line protects Mateer will go a long way in determining OU’s offensive ceiling.
Defensively, the Sooners return experience and talent—names like R. Mason Thomas and Kip Lewis will be the heartbeat of a unit aiming for a more physical SEC identity. The defensive line is deep, and has a chance to be one of the best in the nation. After Mason Thomas, returning guys are Damonic Williams, Gracen Halton, Jayden Jackson, David Stone, P.J. Adebawore, and Taylor Wein. That is without mentioning Florida State transfer Marvin Jones Jr. Good luck, offensive lines!
As the Sooners take the field for fall camp, the foundation for the 2025 season will start to take shape. With John Mateer leading the offense and key position battles unfolding behind him, Oklahoma has a chance to build something steady and dangerous.
