Oklahoma State Dismisses Miami Transfer Safety Zaquan Patterson Before 2025 Season

Oklahoma State football has dismissed safety Zaquan Patterson, a transfer from the Miami Hurricanes, just over a week before the start of the 2025 season. Patterson, a former four-star recruit and standout from Hollywood, Florida, had played 12 games for Miami in 2024, recording 19 tackles and three pass breakups. He was expected to be a key addition to the Cowboys' secondary, which returns only six defensive starters and finished 132nd in total defense last season. Despite his promising potential and positive impressions during fall camp, no specific reason for his dismissal was provided. Oklahoma State now faces the challenge of filling the gap in their secondary ahead of their season opener against UT Martin. Returning safety Dylan Smith is expected to help mitigate the loss, but Patterson's departure is a significant blow to the Cowboys' defensive depth and talent.