John Mateer injury update: New details emerge on Oklahoma QB, timeline to return

Oklahoma QB John Mateer could return this week, earlier than expected, and play against Texas, per ESPN’s Pete Thamel. Mateer underwent hand surgery almost two weeks ago and was expected to be unavailable for Red River.

“Sources: Oklahoma QB John Mateer is pushing to return this week for the game against Texas,” Thamel wrote on Twitter/X. “There’s a belief that his return is possible, as he’s reacted well to surgery. Mateer’s surgery on a broken bone in his right (throwing) hand took place nearly two weeks ago. Him playing against Texas would dovetail with the most optimistic return timelines, as he’d be 17 days out of surgery.”

Mateer was on a Heisman Trophy pace through four games this year. He had 1,215 yards, six touchdowns, three interceptions, a 67.4% completion percentage, 190 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns.

Michael Hawkins has filled in for Mateer since the latter went down with injury. He’s steered the ship and has 167 passing yards, three touchdowns, zero interceptions, a 55.6% completion percentage, 58 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.

Funny enough, head coach Brent Venables was unsure of when Mateer would return. He said: “I don’t know when John Mateer will be back,” and that was just on Monday.

College Football Playoff excitement swirled around the Sooners due to Mateer’s great play early on. Wins against Michigan and Auburn got a ton of national attention for the program, something they needed in a critical season for Venables. But for the most part, how Oklahoma performs during SEC play will determine its fate.

Mateer gives Oklahoma the best chance to win, but Hawkins is no slouch. While he’ll make a push to play, Mateer is not guaranteed to be out there for Red River.

“(Hawkins) has some experience playing in there last year. Really, my mindset is no different than it was going into today,” Venables said. “Again, we need to play well in the areas we are in control, taking care of the ball. Making layups when they’re there. Not trying to do too much. You look at some of our parts as a football team, to complement one or another. But I feel great about Mike.”