Oklahoma Coach Venables Says Sooners Tried to Retain QB Arnold Before Auburn Transfer

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables expressed regret over quarterback Jackson Arnold's transfer to Auburn, emphasizing that the team tried to retain him but recognized Arnold needed a fresh start. Arnold’s 2024 season at Oklahoma was challenging due to injuries among key receivers, poor offensive line play that resulted in 50 sacks, and an offensive coordinator change, factors that Venables said severely limited Arnold’s chances of success. Despite being benched briefly, Arnold demonstrated resilience and professionalism, earning Venables' respect who remains optimistic about Arnold's future in football. Arnold, a former five-star recruit, completed 62.6% of his passes for 1,421 yards, 12 touchdowns, and three interceptions last season, but was hindered by the overall dysfunction of the Sooners' offense. The Sooners have since brought in Washington State transfer John Mateer and new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle to revamp the offense. Arnold is expected to start for Auburn when they play at Oklahoma in the SEC opener, with no animosity between Arnold and Venables, who anticipates Arnold returning as a stronger player.