West Virginia University has secured a promising addition to its football roster, signing backup quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. from the University of Oklahoma. Along with him, his brother Maliek Hawkins, a cornerback, will also join the Mountaineers. This transfer marks a significant step for West Virginia as they aim to solidify their quarterback position ahead of the 2026 season.
Michael Hawkins spent two years with the Sooners, where he had limited playing time. In the 2024 season, he participated in seven games, primarily during less critical moments. Notably, he showcased his skills during the bowl game against Navy, throwing for 247 yards and two touchdowns. Over the entirety of the season, Hawkins accumulated 783 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, while also rushing for 204 yards and one touchdown. Despite his potential, he faced challenges, including being sacked 15 times during the 2024 season.
In 2025, Hawkins appeared in two games, filling in during an injury to starting quarterback John Mateer. He managed to throw for 167 yards and contributed to four touchdowns. His dual-threat capability and speed align with the style of play favored by West Virginia’s head coach, Rich Rodriguez. Rodriguez had expressed the need for an experienced quarterback, indicating that he would seek a transfer to bolster the team’s depth.
Hawkins entered the transfer portal as a three-star recruit, previously rated as a four-star during high school. He ranked as the 42nd quarterback nationally according to 247Sports. Rodriguez has emphasized the importance of acquiring a quarterback who can step in and perform under pressure, especially following a challenging season where the team faced a series of injuries.
With the acquisition of Hawkins, the future of West Virginia’s quarterback room has become a focal point for speculation. True freshman Scotty Fox Jr., who started the last few games of the season, demonstrated promise by winning two games. Although he struggled against a tough Texas Tech defense, he was noted for running the offense effectively. The addition of Hawkins raises questions about a potential quarterback competition for the upcoming year.
Rodriguez has previously stated that he does not show favoritism when it comes to player selection. “If you’re good enough to help WVU win games, you’re going to play,” he noted. This philosophy could lead to another intense competition for the starting role, as the team navigates its way through the 2025 season.
On the defensive side, Maliek Hawkins adds depth to the Mountaineers’ secondary, which has lost several key players due to graduation. As a three-star recruit, he brings four years of eligibility, positioning him as a valuable asset for the team moving forward.
The decision to recruit both Hawkins brothers underscores West Virginia’s strategic approach to building a robust roster. As the Mountaineers prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of these players will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
