Oklahoma Sooners Star QB John Mateer Suffers Double Loss on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Kevin Matthew Borba | Last updated Sep 23, 2025 7:55 PM ET

Just when the No. 7 Oklahoma Sooners (4-0) seemed to be on top of the world after their 24-17 Week 4 win over the No. 22 Auburn Tigers, despair hit them like a ton of bricks. As revealed on Tuesday, starting quarterback John Mateer injured his thumb in the first quarter of the victory against Auburn, and while he was able to play through the pain, the injury will require surgery.

According to On3's Pete Nakos, Mateer's recovery timeline is "three to four weeks," which means his status is in question for games like the Red River Rivalry on Oct. 11 against Texas, and also the team's trip to South Carolina on Oct. 18.

While Mateer's absence is already a potential blow to Oklahoma's season, it reportedly could also impact his NFL future, according to ESPN.

According to ESPN's NFL draft expert Jordan Reid, Mateer's stock was steadily rising and was starting to garner early day two chatter, but missing what could be such a key stretch of games will only hurt it.

"Now, missing a month could keep Mateer outside the top 50 picks," wrote Reid. "Returning for a late-season stretch of games against ranked opponents including Alabama, Missouri and LSU could help him salvage his Round 1 potential. Evaluators are taking a wait-and-see approach following his injury. It should be noted that Mateer also has the option to return to school because he has another year of eligibility."

In his first season at Oklahoma, the redshirt junior has thrown for 1,215 yards and six touchdowns, while also leading the team in rushing with 190 yards and five touchdowns.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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