The Oklahoma Sooners have lost quite a few players to the transfer portal this offseason. But, this has become a formality in college football. However, the Sooners are getting the brunt of it because of their bad 2024 season, and that’s understandable. But now, the Sooners are really starting to land some guys in the portal.
They have landed two wide receivers and the No. 1 overall guy in the portal in quarterback John Mateer. Their roster is looking like it could improve on the offensive side of the ball, then again, that’s not easy to do. One player I’m sure they will be missing though, has to be J.J. Hester, who was their most productive player last season, who entered the transfer portalearly in the process.
Former Sooners WR transfers to Kentucky
Hester, originally from Tulsa, transferred from Missouri to Oklahoma in 2022. His time at Oklahoma was plagued by injuries; his first season ended after just three games because of a broken foot. The following year, 2023, was also marred by injury, limiting him to participation in only the last five games where he did not record any receptions.
However, in 2024, Hester managed to turn things around, finishing the season with 14 receptions for 315 yards and one touchdown. His highlights included a 60-yard touchdown catch against Auburn and a 90-yard touchdown against Maine. Despite the team’s overall poor performance, Hester emerged as one of the more productive players.
On Thursday, Hester committed to an SEC foe, the Kentucky Wildcats, where it looks like Mark Stoops, brother of Bob Stoops, is starting to put together a good transfer portal class.
Hester should get a ton of opportunities in 2025. But, Kentucky was one of the worst SEC teams last year, so, who knows, he could just have a repeat of last year.
Everyone wishes Hester nothing but the best.
