Oklahoma football has made another splash in the transfer portal, this time landing Virginia quarterback Gavin Frakes, a move that further reinforces the Sooners’ commitment to solidifying their quarterback depth heading into the 2025 season. For head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Seth Littrell, the acquisition of Frakes represents more than just another name on the depth chart—it’s a strategic investment in a player whose potential has quietly intrigued analysts across the country.
Frakes, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound dual-threat quarterback from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, is coming home after two years in the ACC. Though his time at Virginia was marked by developmental progress rather than immediate production, those close to the program have noted his exceptional football IQ, pocket presence, and ability to extend plays with his legs. Now, after entering the transfer portal earlier this month, Frakes has opted to return to his roots and join a Sooners program steeped in quarterback tradition, one that he grew up watching and dreaming about.
The former three-star recruit initially chose Virginia in 2023 after a standout high school career at Norman North, where he passed for more than 3,800 yards and 42 touchdowns over his final two seasons. His decision to go out of state raised eyebrows at the time, especially given Oklahoma’s history of producing elite quarterbacks, but Frakes saw Virginia as an opportunity to develop in a pro-style offense under head coach Tony Elliott. While he did not start during his time in Charlottesville, he impressed coaches with his work ethic and mental toughness, earning scout team MVP honors in 2023 and serving as the backup in 2024.
By the time he entered the portal, Frakes had two years of eligibility remaining and a reputation as a player with untapped potential. That upside clearly appealed to Oklahoma, especially after the team saw multiple quarterbacks depart following the conclusion of spring camp. With former starter Jackson Arnold declaring for the NFL Draft and backup General Booty entering the portal, the Sooners found themselves in need of an experienced arm who could both push for playing time and serve as an insurance policy should injuries or inconsistency arise during the upcoming season.
Frakes’ familiarity with the state of Oklahoma, combined with his maturity and football acumen, made him a natural fit. The coaching staff wasted no time making their pitch, emphasizing the opportunity to compete for a significant role and be part of a program on the rise. Sources indicate Frakes was on campus less than 72 hours after entering the portal, and the visit left little doubt about where he wanted to be.
For Frakes, the decision to join the Sooners wasn’t just about football—it was about family, opportunity, and the chance to write a new chapter in a place that already feels like home. His parents, both Oklahoma natives, expressed their excitement about having their son closer to home, and the reunion with friends, former teammates, and mentors from his high school days only sweetened the deal.
The Sooners, for their part, are hoping Frakes can be more than just a depth piece. Though true freshman Avery Johnson is currently projected to start in 2025, the coaching staff has made it clear that competition will be open heading into fall camp. Frakes, with his blend of experience, athleticism, and familiarity with multiple offensive systems, will have every chance to make his case. At the very least, his presence raises the floor in the quarterback room and provides valuable competition that can help sharpen the rest of the unit.
In many ways, Frakes’ arrival mirrors that of other under-the-radar transfers who went on to make significant contributions at Oklahoma. The program has long had a knack for identifying talent that may not have blossomed elsewhere but flourished in Norman. Players like Baker Mayfield and Jalen Hurts came to Oklahoma looking for a fresh start—and while it would be premature to place Frakes in that company, the underlying narrative is familiar. He’s got something to prove, and Oklahoma offers the stage to do just that.
Beyond the field, Frakes brings a strong academic background and leadership qualities that coaches covet. At Virginia, he was involved in multiple leadership councils and participated in community service initiatives across Charlottesville. Those experiences have shaped him into a player who understands the broader responsibilities of being a quarterback—not just as a playmaker but as a communicator, motivator, and role model.
His high school coach, Justin Jones, spoke glowingly about Frakes’ character and resilience, noting that “Gavin’s always been the kind of kid who thrives when the stakes are high. He doesn’t flinch. He leads by example. He’s exactly what you want in your locker room.” That endorsement carries weight in Norman, where relationships and culture are paramount to the coaching staff’s vision for the program.
Offensive coordinator Seth Littrell, who played a major role in Frakes’ recruitment, has already begun the process of tailoring parts of the playbook to suit the strengths of his new quarterback room. While Johnson may offer more explosiveness as a runner, Frakes brings a more traditional pocket-passing dimension, along with enough mobility to keep defenses honest. Expect Oklahoma to experiment with different packages during fall camp as they evaluate how to best integrate Frakes into the system.
It’s also worth noting that Frakes’ transfer comes at a time when Oklahoma is positioning itself for a pivotal transition into SEC play. The Sooners know that the road ahead will be more grueling, and depth at quarterback is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Frakes’ addition offers insurance against the unknowns of a brutal schedule and gives the Sooners flexibility to navigate whatever curveballs the 2025 campaign may throw.
For fans, the news of Frakes’ commitment has been met with cautious optimism. Some see him as a potential breakout candidate, especially if given a legitimate opportunity to showcase his skills. Others view him as a solid depth addition who can help stabilize the quarterback room during what could be a transitional year. Either way, Frakes brings something valuable to the table, and his return to Oklahoma adds an intriguing subplot to the Sooners’ offseason storyline.
There’s also a sentimental aspect to the move that resonates. In a college football era increasingly defined by transactions and NIL deals, Frakes’ journey has a throwback feel to it—a local kid who took the road less traveled and found his way back home. His commitment to improvement, his perseverance through limited playing time, and his unshakable belief in himself speak volumes about his mindset and maturity.
Frakes has already begun informal workouts with several Sooners skill players, and early reviews have been positive. His arm strength, command of the huddle, and rapid assimilation of the playbook have all drawn praise, and teammates describe him as “low ego, high motor.” While it remains to be seen how the quarterback competition will shake out, one thing is certain—Gavin Frakes didn’t come to Oklahoma to sit quietly on the sideline. He’s here to compete.
The days ahead will determine how his story unfolds, but for now, the pieces are in place for Frakes to make an impact. Whether he ends up as a starter, a trusted backup, or a mentor to younger quarterbacks, his presence enhances the overall strength and depth of the program. For a Sooners team eyeing a bounce-back season in a new-look SEC, every edge matters—and Frakes just might be the kind of steady, seasoned presence that tips the scales in their favor.
As summer workouts continue and fall camp looms on the horizon, all eyes will be on the quarterback room in Norman. There will be no shortage of competition, pressure, or scrutiny—but that’s exactly the kind of environment in which Gavin Frakes has always thrived. From Broken Arrow to Charlottesville and back again, his journey has come full circle. Now it’s time to write the next chapter—this time in crimson and cream.
