John Mateer & Kip Lewis Return to OU for 2026 Season! Team 132 is Back!

OU retains key players Mateer and Lewis for another year, boosting hopes for an exciting 2026 campaign.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:59am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a college football game, with the players and field represented as abstract shapes and angles in the team colors of the University of Oklahoma.The return of star players John Mateer and Kip Lewis injects renewed energy and optimism into the University of Oklahoma's football program as they prepare for an exciting 2026 season.Norman Today

The University of Oklahoma football team is retaining two of its star players, quarterback John Mateer and linebacker Kip Lewis, for the 2026 season. After a successful 2025 campaign that included a College Football Playoff appearance, the return of these key contributors has Sooner fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Mateer and Lewis were instrumental in OU's success last year, and their decision to stay will provide much-needed continuity and leadership for the team. Their presence will be crucial as the Sooners look to build on their 2025 performance and potentially make a run at the national championship.

The details

Mateer, who threw for 2,885 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2025, had his season cut short due to a thumb injury. Meanwhile, Lewis, a defensive standout with 76 tackles and 4 sacks, was considering entering the NFL Draft. However, both players have now confirmed they will return to OU for the 2026 season, much to the delight of the Sooner faithful.

  • Mateer and Lewis were key contributors to OU's successful 2025 season, which included a College Football Playoff appearance.
  • Mateer's 2025 campaign was cut short due to a thumb injury, preventing him from fully showcasing his abilities.
  • Lewis was contemplating entering the NFL Draft after his strong 2025 performance, but has now decided to return to OU for the 2026 season.

The players

John Mateer

The University of Oklahoma's starting quarterback, who threw for 2,885 yards and 14 touchdowns in the 2025 season before a thumb injury cut his campaign short.

Kip Lewis

A defensive leader for the Sooners, recording 76 tackles and 4 sacks in the 2025 season. He was considering entering the NFL Draft but has now decided to return to OU for the 2026 campaign.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to have John and Kip back for another year. Their leadership and talent will be crucial as we look to build on our success from last season.”

— Bob Stoops, Head Coach, University of Oklahoma

What’s next

The Sooners will now turn their attention to preparing for the 2026 season, with Mateer and Lewis leading the charge. Fans will be eager to see if the team can make a deep playoff run and potentially compete for a national championship.

The takeaway

The return of Mateer and Lewis is a major boost for the University of Oklahoma football program, as they look to build on their 2025 success and contend for a national title in 2026. Their leadership and talent will be invaluable as the Sooners aim to take the next step and bring home a championship for their loyal fanbase.