Former Cal RB Jaydn Ott Transfers to Oklahoma for 2025 Season

Jaydn Ott, a former Cal running back, transferred to the Oklahoma Sooners in 2025 seeking to elevate his game and benefit from a familiar offensive system under coordinator Ben Arbuckle. Despite a challenging 2024 season with injuries and a dip in efficiency, Ott was a standout at Cal with over 2,500 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns over three seasons. His decision to join Oklahoma came down to a choice between OU and Georgia, ultimately favoring the Sooners due to the opportunity to play alongside new quarterback John Mateer, another key transfer acquisition. Ott has quickly emerged as a team leader and is adjusting to life in Oklahoma, embracing the slower pace and new experiences away from his Southern California roots. Both Ott and Mateer are expected to significantly improve Oklahoma's offense, which struggled in 2024, with the duo considered a major upgrade to the team's backfield. Coaches and analysts view Ott as a dynamic talent poised to be the Sooners' lead running back for the upcoming season.