Brent Venables evaluates what Cal transfer RB Jaydn Ott brings to Oklahoma

Jaydn Ott could be one of the premier running backs in the SEC this season if he stays healthy. Transferring into Oklahoma from Cal, Ott brings a lot more to the Sooners program that his on-field prowess.

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables was asked to describe what Ott brings to the OU program. The Sooners head coach couldn’t say enough about his new RB.

“He’s got great humility, tremendous work ethic. He’s a people person. He’s a little quiet, but he’s connected well and mature beyond his years,” Venables said during SEC Media Days. “In my opinion, he’s got he’s got the ability to carry a lot on his shoulders on and off the field. He’s got a wonderful family, really supportive. He chose to come to Oklahoma and wanted to be pushed.

“He wanted to be challenged, and he wanted to be in an environment where there’s a lot of people moving in the same direction. Where guys are ambitious and driven and that’s his testimony.”

Venables credited fellow OU running back Jovontae Barnes with helping Ott transition to his new team, learning the schematics, formations and adjustments. Barnes is set to play his fourth season with the Sooners in 2025, and it appears he is happy to bring his new teammate up to speed.

“(Barnes) recognizes when you bring in somebody at the caliber of Jaydn, that only helps everybody,” Venables said. “It helps the offense, helps his opportunities. We’re going to have a successful season, and you can’t do it with one running back by any stretch.

“Whether it’s Xavier Robinson, Taylor Tatum or Tory Blaylock, we have a wonderful group of running backs that have welcomed him with open arms.”

Given the expectations surrounding Ott coming into the season, having the support of his fellowing running back room could be a huge boost of confidence after a shaky 2024 season. Ott suffered an ankle injury in California’s season-opener last season and never looked the same. He finished the year with 116 carries for 385 yards and four touchdowns. He also hauled in 24 catches for 222 yards and a score.

While those numbers are still solid, they pale in comparison to Ott’s to previous campaigns. In 2023, Ott exploded 1,305 rushing yards and 12 TDs. His 1,305 rushing yards were the ninth-most in the country that season. If he stays healthy, he could produce similar numbers in the SEC in 2025.