John Mateer Named to Prestigious Walter Camp Player of the Year Preseason Watch List
August 5, 2025 — Norman, OK
In a powerful affirmation of his meteoric rise, Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer was officially named to the 2025 Walter Camp Player of the Year preseason watch list, the Walter Camp Football Foundation announced on Monday. Among 46 players across the nation, Mateer is one of just 22 quarterbacks recognized as early contenders for college football’s fourth-oldest and most prestigious individual
A Rapid Rise from Transfer to National Spotlight
Mateer, a junior and former standout transfer from Washington State, arrived in Norman this spring with high expectations. In his singular full season at Washington State in 2024, Mateer tallied 3,139 passing yards, 826 rushing yards, and 44 total touchdowns, a performance that made him the Pac-12’s offensive “top performer.”The Sooners landed him in December 2024 as a transformative addition to quarterback room — and he’s already getting national attention.
His inclusion to the Walter Camp preseason list comes as no surprise to observers following Oklahoma’s early fall camp sessions. As News 9 reported, the Sooners’ offense is flashing early promise behind Mateer’s confident leadership. "If Oklahoma is going to take a leap forward in 2025, it has to happen on the offensive side of the ball,” the report stated. Mateer himself acknowledged the pressure as productive: "You got the perfect system... you can’t ask for anything better.
What the Walter Camp Watch List Means
Being named to the Walter Camp Watch List is a significant honor. Established in 1967 and voted on by FBS head coaches and sports information directors, the award has been earned by legends such as O.J. Simpson, Josh Heupel, Joe Burrow, and most recently Travis Hunter of Colorado in 2024, the only two-way player to win it.
The 2025 list features players from 37 schools across 11 conferences — including Oklahoma’s Mateer, reflecting how his potential extends well beyond the SEC’s boundaries.
The watch list will be narrowed to 10 semifinalists in November and then three finalists announced in early December, before the ultimate winner is revealed on ESPN’s College Football Awards Show on December 12.
Why Mateer Stands Out
Several factors make Mateer noteworthy:
1. Dual-Threat Production. His 44 total touchdowns at Washington State showed not only arm talent — but also playmaking mobility. Oklahoma’s system under new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle thrives on quarterback versatility, and early fall camp reports suggest Mateer is adapting swiftly.
2. Immediate Chemistry. Mateer has already connected with the Sooners’ revamped receiving corps and skill position players. News 9 highlighted highlight–making early flashes from transfer receiver Keyontez Lewis, raising expectations that Oklahoma’s passing attack will be dynamic and explosive.
3. Leadership in Transition. In joining a storied program undergoing a quarterback transition, Mateer has stepped into the spotlight with poise. His confidence during fall drills indicates he’s embraced a leadership role — one that comes with heightened expectations in Normal.
Broader Context: Oklahoma’s Offensive Rebound
Oklahoma underwent a quarterback overhaul in 2025 following the departures of previous signal-callers. Mateer’s arrival has refocused the offense around his dynamic skill set, and the Walter Camp nod underscores how high the expectations are for improvement.
With a schedule that includes early conference-showdowns and a new era under Head Coach Brent Venables, the Sooners need a strong season to regain Big 12 relevance and national respect. Mateer anchoring the offense brings hope that Oklahoma can make a statement year — and earn postseason recognition.
What Comes Next
While the preseason watch list is a valuable nod, the real test for Mateer begins with opening kickoff. His performance in key early matchups — like non-conference showdowns and league openers — will determine whether he advances to semifinalist and finalist status. Just a handful of quarterbacks will be chosen later in the year, and competition will be fierce.
However, Oklahoma fans and media aren’t complacent. The Sooners will monitor Mateer’s in-season production — including his passing efficiency, leadership under pressure, and ability to elevate teammates — to assess his candidacy.
Final Thoughts
John Mateer’s addition to the Walter Camp Player of the Year preseason watch list is both a reflection of his past accomplishments and a projection of anticipated greatness. It’s a nod to his statistical excellence at Washington State, a sign of confidence in his fit within Oklahoma’s offense, and an affirmation of his potential to be a national impact player.
If the rising-star quarterback fulfills that promise, Oklahoma could return to its offensive identity while Mateer builds a case to join the elite ranks of Walter Camp alumni.
For now, the lens is firmly on Norman, as the Sooners rally around a quarterback who is already being spoken of as a serious contender for one of college football’s highest honors. And with fall camp just underway, the season ahead promises to be one of revelation, validation — and potentially, stardom.
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