Oklahoma Quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. Transfers to West Virginia

Oklahoma football has seen another offseason roster change as quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. announced his transfer to West Virginia. The move adds to the Sooners’ ongoing adjustments in the quarterback room and underscores the competitive environment in Norman.

Hawkins spent two seasons at Oklahoma, showing flashes of potential but facing limited opportunities behind an established starter. His decision to transfer reflects a search for consistent playing time and a clearer path to a starting role elsewhere.

The transfer became official Monday when On3Sports’ Transfer Portal account shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), citing ESPN confirmation. The announcement highlights West Virginia’s interest in bolstering its quarterback depth following multiple departures.

This move marks a fresh start for Hawkins while signaling the Sooners’ commitment to evaluating and reshaping their roster as spring practice approaches. It also continues the nationwide trend of quarterbacks using the transfer portal to find opportunities in competitive programs.

1. Hawkins’ Oklahoma Tenure

Hawkins arrived at Oklahoma as a highly touted recruit with a strong athletic profile and dual-threat capabilities. Over two seasons, he saw intermittent playing time, starting games during the 2024 season while limiting appearances in 2025 to preserve eligibility. John Mateer’s position as the entrenched starter, combined with a crowded quarterback room, left Hawkins with few opportunities to develop in-game experience. Despite that, he displayed flashes of talent and leadership when called upon. The Texas native brought energy to the Sooners’ offense, showing mobility, arm strength, and the ability to make plays under pressure. His sporadic performances left coaches and fans intrigued but also underscored the need for consistent reps to maximize his potential. With his eligibility intact, Hawkins’ departure allows him to pursue a situation where he can compete for immediate playing time and showcase his skills without waiting behind a stacked depth chart.

2. Opportunity at West Virginia

West Virginia lost multiple quarterbacks in the transfer portal, creating an opening for Hawkins to step into a meaningful role. The Mountaineers are actively rebuilding depth at the position, and Hawkins’ experience makes him a valuable addition. He arrives in Morgantown with three years of eligibility remaining, giving him time to compete, learn the system, and potentially assume the starting job. His SEC-tested experience provides a level of readiness that few incoming transfers can match. The Mountaineers’ quarterback room now gains a player capable of contributing immediately, both in practice and in games, while bringing the leadership traits learned during his tenure at Oklahoma. Hawkins’ arrival may also influence West Virginia’s recruiting and transfer strategy, providing a veteran presence to help stabilize the position while new talent develops behind him.

3. Implications for Oklahoma

For the Sooners, Hawkins’ departure trims the quarterback room and clarifies roles heading into spring practices. With fewer options, coaching staff can focus on developing remaining players while planning for the 2026 season. The transfer also reflects the broader reshaping of Oklahoma’s roster. Players are moving to find opportunity, while coaches evaluate fit and performance to create a competitive, streamlined group. Hawkins’ exit carries sentimental value as well, given his father, Michael Hawkins Sr., played cornerback at Oklahoma under Bob Stoops and left his own mark on the program. The family connection underscores the legacy aspect of the transfer and the personal dimension for the young quarterback. Moving forward, Oklahoma will rely on its remaining quarterbacks to assume leadership and help stabilize the offense, while Hawkins embarks on a new chapter aimed at maximizing his collegiate career.