Hurts transferring to Oklahoma; Martell to Miami
Former Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts will transfer to Oklahoma, he announced Wednesday.
As a graduate transfer, Hurts can play immediately in 2019. He has one year of college eligibility remaining.
He made the announcement in an essay he penned for The Players’ Tribune.
“I’ve decided to take my talents to the University of Oklahoma, where I will continue my development as both a quarterback and as a student.
“I’m very fortunate to have this opportunity, and I’m excited for the journey ahead.”
Hurts, who started his freshman and sophomore seasons at Alabama, lost the starting quarterback job to sophomore Tua Tagovailoa in 2018, who is returning next season. He entered his name in the transfer portal a week ago and also considered Maryland and Miami.
Quarterback Tate Martell announced late last night that he is transferring from Ohio State to Miami.
At Oklahoma, Hurts will follow two Heisman Trophy winners, Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, both of who were transfers to the Sooners.
And he undoubtedly will strive to lead Oklahoma into the championship game for the first time of the College Football Playoff. In the five-year history of the CFP, Oklahoma has qualified three times but never made it beyond the semifinal game. The Sooners were ousted by the Crimson Tide this season.
In his three seasons at Alabama, Hurts threw for 5,626 yards with 48 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He added 1,976 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns.
Hurts concluded his essay with messages both to the fans in Norman, Okla., and to those in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
“So to my about-to-be family in Norman, I truly appreciate you for bringing me on board,” Hurts wrote. “Y’all don’t know me yet……… but just for now, to introduce myself: I’m a motivated coach’s son from the Eastside of Houston, and I love to play ball.
“And to my Bama family, once again, THANK YOU — for everything. It’s been a great three years. I’ll love you until the end of time!”