PARTNERSHIP FOR CHAMPIONSHIP: New OU running back Jaydn Ott Says He Chose the Sooners Mainly Because He Wanted to Play with John Mateer for the Title.
New OU Running Back Jaydn Ott Says Playing with John Mateer Tipped the Scales in Favor of Oklahoma Over Georgia
The Oklahoma Sooners just added another offensive weapon to their arsenal—star running back Jaydn Ott—and his reason for choosing OU over powerhouse Georgia speaks volumes about the direction of the Sooners’ offense.
Ott, a dynamic playmaker and transfer standout, revealed that his decision came down to two national heavyweights: Oklahoma and Georgia. But in the end, it was quarterback John Mateer who made Norman feel like home.
“It really came down to where I felt the chemistry would be strongest,” Ott said during a recent interview. “John Mateer’s leadership, his energy, and the way he carries himself—he’s the kind of quarterback you want to line up beside. That’s what made OU the right fit.”
Ott, who racked up over 1,000 yards and double-digit touchdowns last season, brings an explosive element to Oklahoma’s backfield. He’s fast, elusive, and dangerous in open space. But beyond the numbers, his commitment speaks to a rising confidence in the Sooners’ offensive identity under offensive coordinator Seth Littrell.
What makes Ott’s connection with Mateer so intriguing is how seamlessly their styles complement each other. Mateer, known for his command of the pocket and mobility, thrives when paired with a versatile back like Ott who can both pound the rock and catch passes out of the backfield. The two have already been seen working on timing drills and running routes together during fall camp, igniting buzz about the chemistry they’re building.
“Jaydn is a dog,” Mateer said when asked about his new teammate. “He brings juice every rep, and you can already tell he’s ready to make a statement in the SEC. We’ve got big plans.”
Choosing Oklahoma over Georgia—one of college football’s premier destinations—is no small feat. It signals that Brent Venables and his staff are creating an environment that not only attracts elite talent but also fosters real relationships and trust. Ott’s decision shines a spotlight on Oklahoma’s evolving identity: not just a program with history, but one with a bright, player-driven future.
With Ott and Mateer now in sync, Oklahoma’s offense could be primed for one of its most explosive seasons in recent memory.
