BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Fills Norman as Oklahoma Sooners Star John Mateer Announces Return for 2025-26 Season
Norman, OK – In a thrilling announcement that sent shockwaves through the college football world, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer declared his commitment to return for the 2025-26 season. The rising star made the statement during a surprise press conference held at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium earlier today. With a confident smile and unmistakable conviction in his voice, Mateer proclaimed, *“I’m not going anywhere.
The news comes as a sigh of relief for Sooner Nation and a major boost for the program’s ambitions heading into next season. Mateer’s return ensures continuity at the quarterback position and injects new energy into the team as they aim for another shot at a Big 12 title — and perhaps even a College Football Playoff berth.
“I’ve thought a lot about this decision,” Mateer said. “After talking it over with my family, my coaches, and my teammates, I knew my heart was still here. This program means everything to me. I want to finish what we started.”
Mateer, who emerged as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the conference last season, led the Sooners to a 10-2 record and a top-10 national ranking. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Mateer passed for over 3,200 yards and 27 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 600 yards and 9 scores. His ability to make plays under pressure and lead with maturity far beyond his years earned him the respect of fans, teammates, and analysts alike.
Sooners Head Coach Brent Venables expressed his excitement following Mateer’s announcement. “John coming back is huge for this team. He’s the heartbeat of our locker room,” Venables said. “He’s not just a great athlete — he’s a competitor, a leader, and a warrior. We’re going to do everything we can to make him one of the greats to ever wear that jersey.”
Venables hinted that big plans are in the works to maximize Mateer’s potential, including tailoring the offense even more to his skill set. “We’re going to open it up,” he said. “Let him make plays, let him lead, and let him show the country what Oklahoma football is all about.”
The Sooners are already looking stacked for next season, with several key starters returning on both sides of the ball and a top-tier recruiting class set to arrive in the summer. Mateer’s decision adds the final piece to what could be a championship-contending roster.
Fans gathered outside the stadium following the press conference, many donning #7 jerseys and chanting Mateer’s name. “He’s our guy,” said OU student Lindsey Ramos. “This changes everything. I really believe we’re going to make a serious run next year.”
Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement, with former Sooners players, national analysts, and fans across the country weighing in. ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit tweeted, *“Big-time decision by Mateer. Shows real heart and leadership. Oklahoma’s going to be dangerous next season.”*
As the Sooners head into spring practice with renewed purpose, all eyes will be on Mateer. His leadership, toughness, and commitment to the program have solidified his status as the face of Oklahoma football — and possibly the next great legend in a long line of Sooner signal-callers.
One thing is certain: Norman is fired up, and with Mateer staying home, the road to greatness may be closer than ever.
