SOONERS SHOCKER: Star Wide Receiver Enters Transfer Portal, Leaving Oklahoma Football Fans Reeling
January 10, 2024 — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Oklahoma City sports community, star wide receiver, C.J. Moore, has announced his decision to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. Moore, a key contributor to the Sooners’ high-powered offense in his three seasons with the program, has chosen to seek opportunities elsewhere after his decision was made public via social media.
Moore’s departure marks the latest in a string of departures from Oklahoma’s highly-touted roster, following in the footsteps of other notable transfers in recent years. The news has sent a sense of unease among Sooners fans, many of whom had come to rely on Moore’s electric playmaking ability on the field.
A three-time Big 12 Conference honoree, Moore leaves behind a impressive collegiate resume that includes 143 receptions, 2,134 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns. His production helped the Sooners rank among the nation’s top offenses in his time on campus. Despite his on-field accomplishments, however, Moore cited a desire for “new challenges” and “growth opportunities” outside of Norman as the primary reasoning behind his decision to leave.
“It’s been an incredible four years, and I’m grateful for the experiences and relationships I’ve formed with my teammates, coaches, and the Sooner Nation,” Moore said in a statement. “However, I feel it’s time for me to take my skills and talents to a new stage, and I’m excited about the possibilities ahead.”
The decision to leave Oklahoma comes on the heels of a tumultuous 2023 season that saw the Sooners finish with a disappointing 7-6 record and a loss in the Liberty Bowl. Amidst the turmoil, Moore struggled to find consistency in his production, recording his lowest receiving totals in two of the four regular season games. While he managed to rebound in the final month of the season, the overall drop-off from his previous performances was jarring.
As Oklahoma prepares for a potentially pivotal offseason, the absence of Moore’s presence looms large. The Sooners are poised to welcome a talented freshman class in the 2024 recruiting cycle, but the loss of his playmaking ability may prove particularly challenging to replace.
Head Coach Brent Venables has expressed optimism about Oklahoma’s future prospects, however, citing the team’s strong leadership and camaraderie. “We’re excited about the young men we have returning and the new talent we’re bringing in,” Venables stated. “C.J.’s decision is a reflection of his desire for growth, and we respect his choice. We’ll do our best to continue moving forward and competing at the highest level.”
Moore is expected to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal with a wealth of potential suitors vying for his signature. Among the teams rumored to be in the mix are several prominent Big 12 Conference foes, including Oklahoma State, Texas, and Baylor.
For Sooners fans, the uncertainty surrounding Moore’s transfer has been compounded by the ongoing coaching carousel surrounding Venables. After a tumultuous first season at the helm, the Sooners coach faces increasing pressure to demonstrate marked improvement in 2024. While Moore’s loss is undoubtedly a significant setback, Venables’ program remains committed to its vision of building a championship contender.
The departure of Moore has served as a poignant reminder that the ever-competitive world of college football is inherently dynamic and subject to rapid change. As Oklahoma looks to the future, fans can take heart in the fact that their beloved program remains a force to be reckoned with, even as the program navigates the challenges of the ever-shifting landscape.
