Big news for Oklahoma Sooners fans: key players are staying put for the 2026 season, and it’s not just about new recruits—it’s about keeping the heart of the team intact. Thursday brought the announcements OU fans have been eagerly awaiting, and it’s all about retention, not the transfer portal. All month, eyes have been glued to quarterback John Mateer, wide receiver Isaiah Sategna, and linebacker Kip Lewis—three players whose decisions could make or break the team’s future. And guess what? They’re all staying. Check, check, and check.
The day kicked off with confirmation that Sategna would return for the 2026 season, a move that had fans breathing a sigh of relief. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: as the evening rolled in, OU dropped the bombshell that both Mateer and Lewis—the dynamic duo wearing the No. 10 jersey—aren’t going anywhere. Team 132 is officially taking shape, and it’s looking stronger than ever.
Let’s talk about Mateer. After the 2025 season, it seemed like a no-brainer that he’d return to Norman. Sure, there might have been whispers of a one-and-done scenario, but the season didn’t unfold as planned. Despite impressive success, Mateer’s thumb surgery threw a wrench into the second half of his year, preventing him from truly showcasing his full potential. With 247 completed passes out of 397 attempts (62.2%), 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions—plus 431 rushing yards and eight more scores—Mateer has unfinished business. And now, he’s got another shot to prove it.
And this is the part most people miss: Kip Lewis, the defensive powerhouse, could have easily declared for the NFL Draft after a stellar November. He had the stats to back it up—76 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble—and the leadership to match as one of the team captains. But instead, he’s choosing to stay. Why? Because, like Mateer and Sategna, he’s got a message: let’s run this back.
Both Lewis and Mateer were instrumental in the Sooners’ return to the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2019. Sure, the season ended in a disappointing home loss to No. 9 Alabama, but that’s exactly why this core group is so determined. They’re not done yet. Team 132 has its nucleus intact, and the stage is set for a comeback.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this decision to stay a sign of loyalty, or are these players betting on themselves to boost their draft stock next year? And with the team’s playoff run cut short, can they truly bounce back stronger? Let’s hear it—are you confident in Team 132’s chances, or do you think they’re taking a risk? Sound off in the comments!
