2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Oklahoma’s Quarterback John Mateer

Scouts are always on the lookout for quarterback prospects, and this year, the NFL draft will feature some household names like Arch Manning, Garrett Nussmeier, and LaNorris Sellers. But one name many fans may not have heard just yet is about to emerge on center stage this week against the Michigan Wolverines—Oklahoma’s dual-threat John Mateer. Mateer has been flying under the radar, but this week’s featured game against the Wolverines will ensure that America gets a deeper look into his talent and abilities. 

Mateer is yet another Washington State transfer quarterback looking to improve his stock for next year’s draft. While out west, Mateer threw for over 3,100 yards and 29 passing touchdowns in 2024. What’s more is that Mateer can use his legs, giving the Sooners the dual-threat quarterback they’ve been missing. Last season he ran for over 800 yards and tallied another 15.

If he can replicate those types of numbers in Norman this year, Mateer will be highly sought after in next spring’s draft. 

Strengths

Mateer is the definition of a dual-threat quarterback. He can beat defenses in the air or with his legs and reminds scouts of Washington’s Jayden Daniels. He combines elite legs with sufficient arm strength to make every pro throw at every level of the defense. His mobility buys him time to scramble and throw or take off on a broken play. He is a master of off-schedule production.

Also, Mateer is hauntingly efficient. He doesn’t make many mistakes and rarely throws interceptions. Some will question if he can keep this up with a tougher schedule this year, but all eyes will be on him this week as his first big test against the vaunted Michigan defense will not disappoint. 

Weaknesses

Mateer is only 6’1”, which is a bit undersized for an NFL quarterback. That didn’t hold him back at Washington State, but the SEC is a different conference altogether. He is also frequently dinged by scouts for his mechanics and will likely need to work on his footwork and form before next year’s NFL Combine in Indianapolis. If he does this, he will become a more consistent and accurate passer, which all teams will want to see.  

Conclusion 

Mateer will be up against SEC rivals week in and week out, and the scouting world will want to see how he performs against a higher grade of defenses than last year. He is the definition o a sleeper at this point, as he’s hard to peg as a prospect until the season plays out. He has the physical tools to be a first-round pick, but his stock will rise and fall based on his performance this season, especially in a deep quarterback draft. Draft Nation sees Mateer as a reach for round one and will likely be an early day two pick. With a big season, he could creep up into mid or late round one.