“Breaking: Michael Hawkins Jr. Abruptly Leaves Sooners After Crushing Depth Chart Blow”
In a development that has sent reverberations through Norman and far beyond, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. has reportedly left the program immediately, according to insider sources late Tuesday. The move coincides with the arrival of veteran transfer John Mateer, who has claimed the starting quarterback role for the 2025 season.
Flames Ignite in QB Room
Entering summer camp, the Sooners’ quarterback room was bustling. Washington State transfer John Mateer, fresh off a season leading the nation in touchdowns, was positioned as the presumptive starter. Hawkins, a prized true freshman, had impressed during 2024 spring and in late-season starts—but was still billed by Sports Illustrated as the second option behind Mateer. The unexpected twist? Hawkins reportedly discovered this demotion during a closed-door depth-chart session last week, and—feeling blindsided—announced he was leaving “effective immediately.”
Personal Standoff Goes Public
Sources close to Hawkins report he was deeply affected by the decision. As an Oklahoma legacy whose family roots run deep in Norman, his pride and sense of belonging were reportedly wounded when the coaching staff sided with Mateer as the clear favorite. Though Hawkins had publicly vowed to continue competing, a heated meeting behind closed doors appears to have changed everything. The sources say that despite affirmations from coaches about an open competition, Hawkins felt the staff had already made their mind up.
Road Ahead: Transfer Portal or NFL?
Hawkins’ departure opens two obvious paths. First, another run at the transfer portal—where he could instantly compete for a starting job at a program of his choosing. In light of new transfer rules, that seems the most likely scenario. Alternatively, some analysts speculate he could explore early NFL eligibility if off-field evaluations justify it—though that would be an unprecedented leap with relatively limited in-game film.
Program Pulse & Coach Reaction
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has yet to confirm the departure publicly. But sources from within the athletic department confirm “irreconcilable differences” stemming from the depth-chart decision that led to the split. Coaches are said to be scrambling to reconfigure spring practices without Hawkins’ dynamic mobility and leadership—though they remain bullish about Mateer’s potential.
Team Chemistry & Fan Fallout
The Sooners faithful are polarized. On one camp: supporters devastated by Hawkins’ exit, citing his youth, legacy pedigree, and gritty performances in late-season games—including against Auburn and Navy . The other: Mateer adherents convinced his dual-threat energy and collegiate experience make him the superior long-term solution. Social media collages of Hawkins’ sideline moments and “We want Mike” rally cries have already begun trending.
⏳ Next Moves
With fall camp rapidly approaching, Oklahoma’s passing game must recalibrate. Incoming freshman Jett Niu and FCS-transfer Whitt Newbauer remain the only remaining depth behind Mateer. If injuries strike, backup options will be thin. With Hawkins now off the roster, Venables reportedly plans to pursue another portal moldable QB by early August.
Bottom Line: In this fictional account—as hinted by recent coverage—Michael Hawkins Jr. has reportedly exited the Sooners’ program after learning he’d been relegated behind John Mateer. His next steps could reshape Oklahoma’s 2025 campaign, while raising larger questions about coaching transparency, locker-room dynamics, and the emotional toll of positional battles.
Stat Box: Hawkins in review
| Year | Games Played | Starts | Pass Yards | Rush Yards | TDs | INTs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 7 | 4 | 783 | 204 | 3 | 2 (si.com) |
