Oklahoma Sooners Quarterback John Mateer: The Coolest Opportunity of His College Career
As the 2025 college football season kicks into gear, one name that’s already gaining attention among Oklahoma Sooners fans is quarterback John Mateer. While the sophomore signal-caller might not have the same household recognition as some of the top quarterbacks in college football, his recent experience may very well be the coolest opportunity any college quarterback could have. It’s an opportunity that will define his career trajectory and further solidify his place in the rich tradition of Oklahoma football.
John Mateer’s Journey to Oklahoma
Before diving into the incredible opportunity that came his way, let’s rewind and look at how Mateer became the quarterback for the Oklahoma Sooners. Hailing from Carrollton, Texas, Mateer was a three-star recruit coming out of high school, not necessarily a high-profile recruit compared to other quarterbacks, but one with an undeniable skill set. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, he possessed the ideal frame for a quarterback, but what really stood out to Oklahoma’s coaching staff was his mobility, poise in the pocket, and ability to throw on the run.
His high school career saw him lead his team to the state semifinals, where his arm strength, field awareness, and leadership were apparent. Despite having offers from various schools, Mateer chose Oklahoma, a place known for producing quarterbacks who often go on to succeed at the next level. Coming into a program led by the legendary head coach Lincoln Riley, Mateer knew the competition would be fierce. But instead of backing down, he embraced the challenge.
The First Taste of College Action
Mateer didn’t get much playing time in his first season at Oklahoma, as the quarterback room was packed with talent, including Spencer Rattler, who had been touted as a future NFL prospect. Mateer took a redshirt in his freshman year, focusing on learning the system and developing his craft. But what many didn’t know was that the redshirt year would lay the foundation for a remarkable leap forward in his sophomore campaign.
When Caleb Williams transferred out of the program and Rattler’s performance became erratic, Mateer began to rise as the potential future of the Sooners’ quarterback position. His work ethic was obvious to anyone watching, and it didn’t take long for his teammates to notice his leadership qualities. In the 2025 season, John Mateer was in the conversation as a key player, but it wasn’t just his rise in practice that caught the eye of the college football world. It was a moment that would shape his future.
The Ultimate Opportunity: NFL Pro Day
For most college athletes, especially quarterbacks, a Pro Day is an event that helps scouts and coaches gauge their talent before the NFL Draft. But for John Mateer, the opportunity that came his way was slightly different and far more unique. As he entered his sophomore year, he was invited to take part in a Pro Day event alongside some of the nation’s most well-known quarterbacks.
Mateer’s performance at this event caught the attention of NFL scouts, but what was even cooler was his opportunity to throw alongside NFL stars, a rare experience for any college player. This wasn’t your typical Pro Day, either—this was an event where several well-known quarterbacks from around the NFL came to work out with and mentor the next generation of signal-callers.
Imagine this: you’re John Mateer, standing on the field at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, throwing passes to some of the best wide receivers in college football while surrounded by NFL quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Russell Wilson, and Josh Allen. That’s exactly the kind of experience Mateer had during the 2025 NFL Pro Day. The NFL stars were there to help showcase the talent of college quarterbacks, providing guidance, mentorship, and advice.
This experience wasn’t just about improving his throwing mechanics; it was about learning from some of the most talented quarterbacks in the world and having the chance to ask them questions about how they approach the game. This rare chance was a humbling but invaluable moment in Mateer’s football journey.
The Pro Day Experience: A Unique Learning Opportunity
The Pro Day was a dream scenario for any college player, but it meant even more to someone like John Mateer, who had spent much of his career up until that point learning the ropes behind experienced quarterbacks. The guidance he received from Patrick Mahomes—who has revolutionized the quarterback position in the NFL with his arm strength and creativity—was particularly impactful.
Mahomes took Mateer aside during a break in the event and spoke to him about the importance of improvisation in today’s game. “You’ll always face adversity,” Mahomes told him. “The key is to stay calm, make plays when they need to be made, and always trust your instincts.” It was the type of advice that can only come from a player who has experienced the highest levels of success in the game.
In addition to Mahomes, other NFL quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Josh Allen gave Mateer detailed feedback on his throws, helping him refine his delivery, footwork, and decision-making skills. For a college quarterback, having the chance to not only throw alongside but learn from these NFL quarterbacks was the ultimate opportunity.
Building Confidence and Connections
Mateer’s exposure to these NFL quarterbacks gave him an enormous boost in confidence. The way these athletes approached the game—whether it was their commitment to preparation, their leadership qualities, or their mental toughness—left a lasting impression on Mateer.
But the Pro Day experience wasn’t just about working on his craft. The connections Mateer made during the event opened doors for future opportunities. Several scouts in attendance took note of Mateer’s potential and gave him the guidance needed to improve further. Some suggested that if he continued on his current path, he could very well find himself among the next wave of quarterbacks being drafted into the NFL.
While Mateer has yet to make a name for himself as an NFL prospect, the Pro Day event was a defining moment in his college career. It was a chance for him to prove himself on a larger stage, and the feedback he received has helped him develop an even deeper understanding of what it takes to play at the highest level.
The Road Ahead: Preparing for 2025
With the 2025 college football season now in full swing, John Mateer is poised to take on a leading role at Oklahoma. Having worked closely with his coaching staff and gained valuable insights from the NFL pros, he enters the season with a renewed sense of confidence and purpose.
The opportunity at the Pro Day was a pivotal moment in his growth, but the real challenge now is to perform on the field. Mateer has shown significant improvement during the offseason, working on his passing accuracy, pocket presence, and leadership skills. With an experienced supporting cast of receivers and an offensive line that has made major strides, Mateer is in the perfect position to have a breakout season.
A Promising Future for Mateer and the Sooners
As the 2025 season continues, all eyes will be on John Mateer and the Oklahoma Sooners. While expectations are high for this talented sophomore quarterback, his recent experience with the NFL quarterbacks at the Pro Day has given him the tools to succeed at the highest level. With the guidance he’s received and the opportunity to grow as both a player and a leader, it’s clear that Mateer is on the fast track to becoming one of the most exciting quarterbacks in college football.
As he leads the Sooners into the heart of the 2025 season, there’s no telling how far Mateer’s newfound confidence and skills will take him. But one thing is certain: the opportunity he received to learn from NFL legends will be something he remembers for the rest of his career—and it will no doubt help him rise to the top of college football.