Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach Brent Venables Officially Announces the Return of Legend Baker Mayfield as a New Co-owner and promised to make Quarterback John Mateer the..
In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach Brent Venables confirmed today that former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback and Oklahoma legend Baker Mayfield will return to the university—this time as a Co-Owner of the Oklahoma Sooners football program. Additionally, Coach Venables declared that sophomore quarterback John Mateer would be the future of the Sooners’ offense, cementing his position as the team’s starting quarterback for the years to come.
The return of Mayfield, who led Oklahoma to a College Football Playoff appearance and won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2017, marks a historic shift in the program’s leadership and future direction. His involvement in the ownership of the team and the program’s continued success promises to bring a unique blend of expertise, passion, and mentorship to the Sooners, while helping solidify the team’s position as a perennial powerhouse in college football.
Brent Venables’ Vision for the Future of the Sooners
In a live-streamed press conference that captivated college football fans across the country, Coach Brent Venables shared his excitement and vision for the future of the Sooners with Mayfield’s return. Venables, who took over as head coach in 2022, spoke at length about the program’s growth and the significance of Mayfield’s new role.
“The Oklahoma Sooners have a rich tradition of excellence, and Baker Mayfield has been a monumental part of that legacy. Today, I am honored and excited to announce that Baker will return to the program—not just as a legend but as a co-owner, someone who will play a significant role in shaping the future of our team,” Venables began. “Baker’s return represents more than just a walk down memory lane; it’s about building for the future and ensuring the Sooners continue to compete at the highest level. Baker is more than just a player to us—he’s a part of our family. His leadership, both on and off the field, is something we’ll all benefit from.”
Mayfield’s appointment as co-owner is a groundbreaking move in college football. While the concept of former players taking ownership stakes in their alma maters is rare in college sports, it reflects Venables’ forward-thinking approach to managing and growing the program. Mayfield’s deep connection to Oklahoma, combined with his understanding of the pressures and expectations of being a Sooner, will bring a fresh perspective to the program’s leadership.
“I’ve always considered Oklahoma my home,” Mayfield said in his own statement. “This is where I became the player I am today, and it’s where I grew into the man I am now. I’m beyond excited to return in this new role. Coach Venables and I have spoken extensively about the future of this program, and I can’t wait to help take the Sooners to new heights. The future is incredibly bright, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
John Mateer: The Quarterback of the Future
While Mayfield’s return has generated the most buzz, Coach Venables also made it clear that Oklahoma’s long-term future will be led by quarterback John Mateer. The highly touted sophomore, who saw limited action during his freshman season, will now take over the reins as the Sooners’ starting quarterback moving forward.
Venables’ announcement confirmed that Mateer, who possesses a blend of mobility, accuracy, and football IQ, would be the centerpiece of Oklahoma’s offensive plans for the next few years. The decision to hand Mateer the starting job early in his career is a testament to his potential and the trust Venables has in his abilities.
“John has everything we look for in a quarterback,” Venables said, emphasizing his confidence in Mateer. “His work ethic, his leadership, and his command of the offense are all exceptional. I believe John has the tools to lead us back to the College Football Playoff and win a national championship. We are putting our full faith in him, and I know he will rise to the occasion.”
Mateer, who was a highly sought-after recruit, impressed coaches during his first season with the Sooners, despite limited playing time behind the senior starter. His arm strength, ability to read defenses, and poise in pressure situations have made him a fan favorite and earned him the trust of the coaching staff. The news that he will be the team’s leader moving forward has sent excitement through the Oklahoma football community.
“I’ve dreamed of being the starting quarterback at Oklahoma since I was a kid,” Mateer said. “To have Coach Venables and Baker Mayfield believe in me and give me the chance to lead this team means the world. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to bring a national championship back to Norman. I’ve learned a lot already, and with Baker’s mentorship, I know I’ll grow even more as a player and leader.”
Baker Mayfield’s Role in the Program
As a co-owner, Mayfield’s role will go far beyond financial investment. The Heisman Trophy winner will be actively involved in mentoring the players, working alongside Venables and the coaching staff to refine the team’s offensive strategy. His deep understanding of Oklahoma’s offensive system, honed during his time under former head coach Lincoln Riley, will be invaluable to the program.
Mayfield will also have a significant influence on recruiting, helping to attract top talent to Norman by showcasing the program’s success and his own journey from walk-on to Heisman winner. His story is one that resonates with recruits, and his new role will allow him to connect with young athletes in a way few can.
“Baker is a guy who’s been through it all,” Venables said. “He knows what it takes to get to the top and how to handle the pressures that come with being the face of this program. His presence on the recruiting trail will be a huge asset, and I’m excited to see how his leadership will impact the next generation of Sooners.”
Mayfield’s influence on the culture of the team is also expected to be profound. Known for his fiery competitiveness and unwavering belief in his abilities, Mayfield’s mentality will be infused into the team, driving the Sooners to embrace a championship mindset.
Oklahoma’s Future: A New Era Begins
With Mayfield now part of the ownership group and Mateer positioned as the quarterback of the future, the Oklahoma Sooners are entering a new era of college football. The program’s leadership is focused on maintaining its tradition of excellence while adapting to the changing landscape of the sport, both on and off the field.
Oklahoma fans, who have long revered Mayfield as one of the greatest quarterbacks in the school’s storied history, are elated by the news. The return of such a beloved figure as a key part of the team’s leadership is sure to energize the fanbase and generate excitement for the upcoming seasons.
As for the team’s goals, Coach Venables has one clear focus: returning the Sooners to national championship contention. With Mayfield as a guiding force and Mateer at the helm, the program is poised to contend for the College Football Playoff year in and year out.
As the Sooners prepare for the 2025 season, fans will be watching eagerly to see how this new chapter unfolds. With Baker Mayfield’s return to Oklahoma and the emergence of John Mateer as the future of the program, the Oklahoma Sooners are ready to reclaim their place among college football’s elite. The future is bright, and the excitement in Norman is palpable.