As the 2025 college football season approaches, ESPN analysts have been paying close attention to the trajectory of former Oklahoma quarterbacks, raising important questions about their development, current status, and potential impact at their new programs or in professional pursuits. Oklahoma, renowned for its storied quarterback history and prolific passing offenses under coaches like Bob Stoops, Lincoln Riley, and now Brent Venables, has consistently produced talented signal-callers who often find themselves in the national spotlight. The transition from college to the next chapter—whether it’s a transfer, a leap to the NFL, or a different career path—has become a focal point of analysis, especially given the recent wave of quarterback movement and development.
ESPN analysts have expressed curiosity about how these former Oklahoma quarterbacks are adapting to different systems, coaching philosophies, and levels of competition as they head into 2025. The questions are multifaceted, covering their readiness, skill development, leadership qualities, and how well their previous experience at Oklahoma has prepared them for the challenges ahead. One recurring theme among the analysts is the importance of context—understanding the specific circumstances each quarterback faced at Oklahoma and how those experiences translate to their current situations.
Many former Sooners who left Oklahoma after successful stints or promising careers have taken different paths, some transferring to other Power Five programs, others entering the NFL draft, and a few exploring alternative options such as the XFL or CFL, or pursuing careers outside of football altogether. The ESPN analysts are particularly intrigued by those who transferred, questioning whether their moves were motivated by a desire for more playing time, a different offensive system, or perhaps a better chance to showcase their talents on a national stage. These decisions are scrutinized to assess whether their previous experience at Oklahoma has equipped them with the necessary skills and mental toughness to succeed elsewhere.
One of the most prominent names that ESPN analysts have been dissecting is Spencer Rattler, who transferred from Oklahoma after the 2022 season and found a new home at South Carolina. Rattler’s journey has been a rollercoaster—initially heralded as one of the nation’s top recruits, then facing criticism during his time at Oklahoma, and finally finding renewed confidence and success in Columbia. Analysts are analyzing whether Rattler’s development at Oklahoma, especially his experience navigating a high-pressure environment and learning under Lincoln Riley’s prolific offense, has prepared him for the demands of SEC competition and the national spotlight. They question whether his arm talent and improvisational ability have been fully refined or if inconsistencies remain that could hinder his NFL aspirations or continued success in college.
Similarly, analysts have been examining the case of Dillon Gabriel, who transferred from Oklahoma to another program before the 2024 season. Gabriel’s proficiency as a quarterback, especially his quick release, decision-making, and leadership qualities, have been points of discussion. Analysts are curious about whether Gabriel’s experience in Oklahoma’s offense, which emphasized timing and precision, has translated into a high level of readiness for the next level, whether that’s collegiate or professional. They also consider his durability, mental resilience, and ability to adapt to new offensive systems, all of which are crucial factors in projecting his future.
Another quarterback drawing attention is General Booty, a legendary figure at Oklahoma known for his unique name and momentary prominence. Though not a traditional NFL prospect, Booty’s story has intrigued analysts because of his perseverance and the cultural impact he had during his tenure. They question whether players like Booty, who may not be at the forefront of NFL draft conversations, have leveraged their Oklahoma experience to carve out meaningful opportunities at other levels or in alternative football leagues, and how their leadership and personality traits translate beyond college.
Looking beyond individual careers, ESPN analysts are also questioning the broader impact Oklahoma’s quarterback development pipeline has had on the sport. Historically, Oklahoma has been a quarterback factory, producing NFL stars like Sam Bradford, Jason White, Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Jalen Hurts. The program’s offensive philosophy, centered around a dynamic passing attack, has often created quarterbacks with high ceilings and versatile skill sets. Analysts ponder whether the coaching staff under Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby has continued this tradition and whether the 2025 crop of former Sooners reflects the same developmental pedigree.
The questions also extend to how these quarterbacks have adapted to evolving defensive schemes and the increasing complexity of college defenses. ESPN analysts scrutinize whether their footwork, decision-making under pressure, and ability to read defenses have improved since their Oklahoma days. They explore whether the coaching and competition at Oklahoma prepared them for the high-stakes environments they face now, especially for those transferring to Power Five programs or preparing for NFL draft evaluations.
Another point of interest for analysts is the mental and leadership aspect—how these quarterbacks handled adversity, team dynamics, and expectations both at Oklahoma and in their subsequent stops. Leadership qualities are often a significant factor in projecting future success, particularly for NFL quarterbacks. ESPN analysts question whether the mental toughness developed during Oklahoma’s high-profile seasons has been sufficient, or whether some of these players struggled to lead in new environments or faced challenges in adapting to different coaching styles and team cultures.
The NFL draft has been another area of focus for ESPN analysts. Some former Oklahoma quarterbacks, like Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, have already established themselves at the professional level, but others are still on the cusp or have yet to be fully evaluated. Analysts debate whether the college success of these quarterbacks at Oklahoma translates into NFL readiness, or if their skill sets require further refinement. They analyze their arm strength, accuracy, mobility, football IQ, and intangibles, assessing how their time in Norman has prepared them to thrive at the next level.
The analysts also consider the impact of the evolving quarterback archetype—whether these former Sooners fit the mold of pocket passers, dual-threat quarterbacks, or hybrid playmakers—and how that influences their draft stock and professional prospects. For instance, if a quarterback was primarily a pocket passer at Oklahoma but has shown improved mobility in recent years, analysts debate whether that versatility makes them more appealing to NFL teams. Conversely, they examine whether certain skill sets are still lacking or require additional development.
Beyond individual assessments, ESPN analysts are also looking at the overall Oklahoma quarterback pipeline and its influence on the program’s reputation. Oklahoma has a history of producing high-caliber quarterbacks who often go on to successful NFL careers, and there’s an expectation that the 2025 crop will continue that tradition. However, questions arise about whether Oklahoma’s recent quarterback development has maintained its consistency or if recent transfers and emerging players suggest a shift in the program’s ability to develop elite-level talent.
The transfer portal has played a role in this discussion, as some Oklahoma quarterbacks have opted to leave for other programs, citing reasons such as playing time, system fit, or coaching changes. Analysts are curious whether these departures are indicative of broader systemic issues or simply the natural progression of college sports, where players seek the best opportunity for their careers. They ponder whether Oklahoma’s coaching staff has been able to retain top talent or if the evolving landscape has made it more challenging to keep quarterbacks committed long-term.
Looking ahead, ESPN analysts are speculating about the future of Oklahoma quarterbacks and their prospects in 2025 and beyond. They consider how the program’s recruiting efforts, quarterback development philosophies, and offensive schemes will continue to shape the next generation of signal-callers. The importance of adapting to modern football trends—such as emphasizing mobility, improvisation, and dual-threat capabilities—is a recurring theme in their analysis.
The analysts also highlight the importance of mentorship and coaching in developing quarterbacks who can succeed at higher levels. Oklahoma’s history of producing NFL talent is often attributed to the quality of coaching and the offensive systems that maximize quarterback potential. They question whether this tradition will continue under Brent Venables and his staff, who are known for their emphasis on defense and physicality but have also prioritized offensive development.
Furthermore, they discuss the importance of leadership, mental toughness, and football IQ, especially in a sport that is increasingly complex and demanding. The ability to process information quickly, make accurate decisions under pressure, and lead teams are qualities that ESPN analysts believe will determine whether these former Oklahoma quarterbacks can fulfill their potential at the next level. They scrutinize whether the experiences they gained under Oklahoma’s high-pressure environment have prepared them for the mental rigors of professional football or if additional development is necessary.
In conclusion, ESPN analysts have raised numerous questions about the trajectory of Oklahoma’s former quarterbacks as they head into 2025. These questions encompass their development, adaptation to new environments, NFL prospects, leadership qualities, and the overall strength of Oklahoma’s quarterback pipeline. The shared concern is whether these players have maximized their potential, learned from their experiences in Norman, and are now ready to excel at higher levels. The answers to these questions will unfold over the course of the upcoming season, as each player’s performance, resilience, and growth are tested on the field and evaluated by scouts, coaches, and analysts alike. As always, Oklahoma’s rich quarterback tradition adds a layer of intrigue and expectation, and the 2025 season promises to reveal whether the next chapter in that storied lineage will be written by these former Sooners or if new stars will emerge from the program’s ongoing development efforts.
