Oklahoma quarterback and current Heisman frontrunner John Mateer has undergone surgery on his hand, according to reports. The procedure comes as the Sooners continue their strong start to the season, raising questions about how long the standout transfer might be sidelined and what it means for Oklahoma’s playoff hopes.

On Tuesday afternoon, news emerged that Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer will undergo surgery to address a hand injury. The standout junior had established himself as a frontrunner in the Heisman Trophy race, making the timing of the setback especially significant for both him and the Sooners.

According to ESPN insider Pete Thamel, the injury occurred in the first quarter of Oklahoma’s matchup against Auburn. Mateer sustained a broken bone in his right hand his throwing hand forcing him out of the game and creating uncertainty about his availability moving forward.

The procedure is expected to be “straight-forward” and will sideline Mateer for roughly a month. Dr. Steven Shin, one of the nation’s top specialists in hand and wrist surgeries, will perform it. Shin has previously operated on stars like Drew Brees, Steph Curry, and Mike Trout.

John Mateer has quickly established himself as one of the nation’s most effective quarterbacks this season, proving to be a dynamic dual-threat playmaker just a year after transferring from Washington State. His ability to impact games both through the air and on the ground has made him invaluable to Oklahoma’s offense.

So far, Mateer has thrown for 1,215 yards with six touchdowns against three interceptions, showing solid production as a passer. On the ground, he’s added another dimension, rushing for 190 yards and five touchdowns, further cementing his reputation as a versatile, dependable leader under center.

Mateer’s absence, projected to last three to four weeks, comes at a critical point in Oklahoma’s schedule. With a bye this week followed by matchups against Kent State and Texas, the Sooners will miss his dual-threat presence, particularly in the run game, where much of their production has come from his legs.

In his place, Oklahoma will turn to backup Michael Hawkins. The young quarterback gained experience last season, starting several games and finishing with 783 passing yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. While he lacks Mateer’s dynamic rushing ability, Hawkins now has the chance to steady the Sooners’ offense until their starter returns.

John Mateer’s debut season at Oklahoma couldn’t have started much better. Reuniting with offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, who previously guided him at Washington State, Mateer brought both familiarity and high expectations. His transfer carried major weight, as he was ranked the No. 3 overall player in the portal by the On3 Industry Transfer Rankings.

That hype quickly translated into results on the field. By the end of Week 4, Mateer had climbed to the top of On3’s Heisman Trophy Poll with 67 points, placing him well ahead of Florida State’s Thomas Castellanos, who finished second with 54. His play cemented him as one of the sport’s biggest early-season storylines.

With John Mateer sidelined, Michael Hawkins will take over as Oklahoma’s starter beginning in Week 6 against Kent State. Hawkins gained valuable experience a year ago when the Sooners rested Jackson Arnold, and Brent Venables has voiced strong belief in his ability to step up.

Venables praised Hawkins’ growth and readiness, emphasizing the progress he’s made since his true freshman season. “We have all the confidence in the world in Michael,” Venables said. “He continues to get better, and I know he’ll embrace this opportunity to lead our offense while John recovers.”