John Mateer isn't just No. 1 in the hearts of Sooner Nation.
With all of the transfer portal dust finally settled, ESPN this week released its ranking of the top 100 portal additions from the entire 2025 offseason, including both cycles. ESPN's Max Olson, Tom Luginbill, Billy Tucker and Eli Lederman compiled the ranking based on production, experience, potential, demand and feedback from coaches and general managers.
With all that considered, ESPN included three new Oklahoma Sooners inside the top 100, with quarterback John Mateer at No. 1. While Mateer topped the list, running back Jaydn Ott came in at No. 17 and safety/linebacker Kendal Daniels just made the cut at No. 99.
John Mateer deemed No. 1 transfer addition
This shows why again Mateer was the headliner of OU's transfer class after following offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle from Washington State. Even at the time he made his commitment, Mateer was already ranked as the No. 1 player available in the transfer portal by multiple outlets.
Mateer led all of college football with 44 total touchdowns last year as a sophomore in his first season as Arbuckle's starting quarterback. It was against a lackluster schedule, but even at a new program Mateer still has familiarity with his system and will now be surrounded with more talent, including Ott.
Ott was the No. 1 running back available in the portal when he signed with OU this spring. He'll have one year of eligibility left as a graduate transfer after an ankle injury hindered him last season. In 2023, though, Ott led the Pac-12 with 1,315 rushing yards and 12 TDs, and he's also dangerous as a return man.
"The Sooners got solid production from Jovantae Barnes and some encouraging play from Xavier Robinson last season, but they couldn't pass up the opportunity to add a true No. 1 back. He'll team up with Mateer in Norman in what should be one of the SEC's most improved offenses this fall," Olson wrote.
OU's defense didn't need nearly as much help as the offense, so Daniels was one of just three defensive additions the Sooners brought in this offseason. Brent Venables made sure any new players could make an immediate impact, and Daniels certainly could as a versatile talent that played safety and linebacker at Oklahoma State, making him built for Venables' cheetah position or have the ability to move around.
"Brent Venables and his defensive coaches are going to have a lot of fun with Daniels this fall, and he could play a role similar to the one Isaiah Simmons had under Venables at Clemson," Olson wrote. "His combination of length, athleticism and experience will give him an opportunity to move around in this defense and shine in multiple spots."
Overall, the Sooners assembled the 12th-best 2025 transfer class in the country, according to 247Sports.
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