The Oklahoma Sooners have added a new name to their quarterback room with the arrival of transfer Cole Gonzales, a former standout at Western Carolina University. Gonzales, a dynamic and experienced signal-caller, made it clear upon his commitment that he’s coming to compete for the starting job and make an immediate impact.
Gonzales’ Journey to Oklahoma
The 6-foot, 195-pound quarterback spent three seasons at Western Carolina, where he showcased elite passing accuracy and strong leadership skills. Over his collegiate career, he completed 64% of his passes for 6,682 yards, 51 touchdowns, and 22 interceptions. His impressive 2023 campaign earned him Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year honors, followed by a first-team all-conference selection in 2024.
With proven success at the FCS level, Gonzales now steps onto the big stage in the Big 12, determined to prove he can compete with some of the best quarterbacks in college football.
A Fierce Quarterback Battle in Norman
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has built a deep and talented roster, and the addition of Gonzales makes the Sooners’ quarterback competition even more intriguing. As spring practices unfold, he will be vying for the starting role against a stacked quarterback room, which includes:
- John Mateer – A junior transfer from Washington State, Mateer brings experience and a strong arm to the competition. He was one of the top quarterbacks in his conference last season.
- Michael Hawkins Jr. – A promising sophomore who has been in the program for a year, gaining valuable experience and developing under Oklahoma’s offensive system.
- Casey Thompson – A veteran graduate transfer with extensive playing experience, Thompson adds leadership and depth to the QB battle.
With multiple talented quarterbacks in the mix, the battle for the starting role is expected to be one of the most closely watched position competitions heading into the 2025 season.
Oklahoma’s Coaching Staff and Expectations
Head coach Brent Venables, entering his third season leading the Sooners, is focused on building a championship-caliber team. With offensive coordinator Seth Littrell working alongside quarterbacks coach Joe Jon Finley, the coaching staff is eager to see how the quarterback competition unfolds.
Venables has emphasized the importance of competition and performance in determining the team’s starter. “The best player will earn the job. It’s about leadership, execution, and decision-making under pressure,” he stated during spring workouts.
Fans Excited for a New Era
With Oklahoma preparing for a challenging Big 12 schedule, fans are buzzing about what the future holds at the quarterback position. Many are eager to see if Gonzales can carry his success from Western Carolina onto the bigger stage, while others believe the existing quarterbacks will rise to the occasion.
As the 2025 season approaches, one thing is certain: the Sooners’ quarterback competition will be one of the most talked-about storylines in college football. Will Cole Gonzales seize the opportunity and lead the Sooners to glory? Only time will tell.
