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The Oklahoma State Cowboys have taken an unprecedented approach to rebuilding their football program, leveraging the transfer portal to an extraordinary degree. New head coach Eric Morris and his staff have brought in close to 90 new players for the upcoming season, a move that signals a complete reset after a disastrous two-year stretch. With fall camp set to begin next week, the roster will feature a heavy influx of new talent, many of whom are expected to contribute immediately.
Among the most impactful additions is quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who follows Morris from North Texas. Mestemaker led the FBS in passing yards last season with 4,379 yards and 34 touchdowns, earning him the Big 12's preseason newcomer of the year honors. Morris, who coached Mestemaker at North Texas, praised his quick processing and leadership qualities. The quarterback's arrival is seen as the cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive revival.
Running back Caleb Hawkins is another standout transfer, having set an NCAA record for combined touchdowns by a true freshman with 29 scores and rushing for 1,434 yards last season. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds a dynamic element to the Air Raid offense. Wide receiver Wyatt Young, who caught 70 passes for 1,264 yards and 10 touchdowns at North Texas, also reunites with Mestemaker and Hawkins, providing a familiar target.
Defensive Reinforcements
On the defensive side, linebacker Ethan Wesloski brings impressive production from North Texas, where he recorded 113 tackles in 14 games under new defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity. He is joined by Isaiah Chisom, a transfer from UCLA who had 84 tackles and two forced fumbles last season. Cornerback Mo Horn adds experience from Texas Tech, while safety Quinton Hammonds, another North Texas transfer, contributed 53 tackles and two interceptions.
The offensive line receives a boost from Braydon Nelson, a North Texas transfer who will likely protect Mestemaker's blind side, and Jacob Sexton, a versatile lineman from Oklahoma who has started at multiple positions. Defensive tackle Jerry Lawson, who played at Louisville and Abilene Christian, is expected to strengthen the run defense.
Morris has emphasized building a new culture, noting that many returning players had never experienced a conference win. He has implemented team-building activities and brought in his own strength staff to instill confidence. The Cowboys' 2026 schedule includes a challenging early test against Oregon in Week 2, which will provide an immediate gauge of the team's progress.
Originally reported by newspub_live.