OU expects a healthy and improved version of John Mateer in 2026

NCAA Football: Michigan at Oklahoma — Sep 6, 2025; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer (10) celebrates with head coach Brent Venables after the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Like most people in Norman, Brent Venables expects a much better John Mateer in 2026. Coming off an up-and-down season, throwing 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, there's high expectations for Mateer. The Washington State transfer quarterback had high expectations a year ago and was even the Heisman Trophy frontrunner after the first couple games of the season. But after breaking his thumb against Auburn in Week 4, Mateer was a different player the rest of the season.