Jackson Arnold Opens Up: Why He Left the Oklahoma Sooners for Auburn in 2024
May 2025
Introduction: A Rising Star’s Unexpected Departure
In one of the most shocking moves of the 2024 college football season, quarterback Jackson Arnold made the decision to leave the Oklahoma Sooners after a meteoric rise through the program. The 6’3″, 205-pound talent, who had been seen as the future of the Sooners’ offense, unexpectedly entered the transfer portal, leaving many fans and analysts baffled.
What followed was a whirlwind of speculation, as the college football world tried to understand what could have prompted such a high-profile departure. Jackson Arnold’s decision to leave the Sooners and commit to Auburn sent ripples through the college football landscape, especially considering how much promise he showed in his freshman season. But now, in an exclusive interview with Sooner Nation, Arnold opens up about his reasons for leaving Norman and why he believes that Auburn is the best place for his future.
The Early Days at Oklahoma: The Big Promise
Jackson Arnold’s journey to Oklahoma was a highly publicized one. Coming out of high school as a five-star recruit from Denton, Texas, Arnold had been viewed as the ideal successor to Heisman Trophy candidate Caleb Williams, who had left the program the year before. Arnold arrived in Norman with enormous expectations and a chip on his shoulder, eager to prove that he could follow in the footsteps of some of the program’s great quarterbacks, including Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray.
During his freshman year in 2023, Arnold made an immediate impact. Despite backing up veteran Dillon Gabriel, Arnold was given a few opportunities to showcase his skills, especially during blowout wins. His raw arm strength, poise in the pocket, and mobility immediately stood out. Soon, many believed Arnold would be the starting quarterback for the 2024 season, bringing hope to fans who were looking for the next superstar under center.
However, despite this early promise, things weren’t as smooth behind the scenes. Arnold admits that while his time in Norman was filled with growth, the environment wasn’t as conducive to his development as he had initially hoped.
The Frustration Behind the Scenes
Arnold speaks candidly about the frustrations he experienced during his time at Oklahoma. Despite the team’s success, including a solid 10-2 record in the 2023 season, Arnold felt that his progression as a quarterback was hindered by various factors.
“One of the biggest things that I realized was that the expectations placed on me were a double-edged sword,” Arnold explains. “I was expected to come in and immediately lead the offense. But the reality of it was, the system that was in place wasn’t built around me. It was a system that worked for Dillon Gabriel, and I learned a lot from him, but it wasn’t necessarily the best environment for me to thrive.”
Arnold goes on to mention that his playing time was sporadic, and he often found himself adjusting to different play styles depending on who was at the helm of the offense.
“I spent a lot of time studying film and trying to figure out the best ways I could be used within the offense. But there were moments when I felt like my growth was stunted because we weren’t running plays that fit my strengths,” Arnold says, adding that the coaching staff, while talented, often focused more on developing the current starting quarterback rather than giving him the reps he needed to step into the limelight.
Another challenge Arnold faced was the pressure to live up to the hype surrounding his recruitment. While many fans were already expecting him to be a generational talent, the weight of those expectations took a toll on his mental well-being.
“Sometimes, you forget that you’re still growing as a person and as a player. You hear how you’re the ‘next big thing’ and it messes with your head,” Arnold confesses. “I needed a place where I could focus on just being me and developing at my own pace.”
The Breaking Point: The Transfer Portal Decision
As the 2024 offseason progressed, Arnold’s frustration began to grow. In a pivotal conversation with Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables, Arnold expressed his concerns about his future with the program. Venables, who had been supportive of Arnold’s development, understood that the quarterback needed to be in an environment that would allow him to play to his full potential.
“It wasn’t a decision made in anger or frustration. It was about realizing what was best for me and my future,” Arnold recalls. “I needed to be in a situation where I could play, where the system fit my skill set, and where I could be the guy from day one.”
Arnold’s decision to enter the transfer portal was not an easy one. It meant leaving behind a program he had long dreamed of playing for. However, after weeks of reflection and soul-searching, he knew it was the right move.
“I had a lot of respect for Oklahoma and the coaching staff. But I had to make a decision that was best for my future. I wanted to play in a system that allowed me to flourish, and that’s why I ultimately decided to look elsewhere.”
The Auburn Move: A New Chapter Begins
Auburn, which had been actively searching for a quarterback to revitalize its offense, quickly became Arnold’s landing spot. Under head coach Hugh Freeze, Auburn was building something that Arnold believed could be special. The Tigers had a history of developing dynamic quarterbacks, and Arnold felt that Freeze’s offensive system, which emphasized a dynamic, up-tempo style, would be the perfect fit for his talents.
“Auburn just felt like the right place for me,” Arnold says. “Coach Freeze has a reputation for developing quarterbacks, and the offense they run is everything I need. It’s fast-paced, it’s aggressive, and it gives me the freedom to make plays. I knew I could come in and have an immediate impact.”
Additionally, Arnold was drawn to Auburn’s tradition and the passion of its fan base. While Oklahoma had its own rich history, Arnold felt that Auburn’s culture of developing quarterbacks and giving them the keys to the offense was a perfect match for what he was looking for.
“The fans at Auburn are crazy passionate. And the chance to lead them, to bring them back to prominence, is something that excites me,” Arnold says with a smile. “I’m ready for this next chapter.”
A Look Ahead: The Future of Jackson Arnold
As Arnold embarks on his journey at Auburn, he is excited about the opportunity ahead of him. With a clear system that plays to his strengths and the chance to start immediately, he feels rejuvenated and ready to take on the challenge.
“The pressure is always there. But at Auburn, I feel like I can be myself. I’m focused on developing my game, leading my team, and hopefully winning a championship. That’s what it’s all about.”
As he reflects on his time at Oklahoma, Arnold remains thankful for the lessons learned and the people who helped shape his career. But now, his sights are set on the future, and that future is at Auburn.
Conclusion: A Fresh Start
Jackson Arnold’s departure from Oklahoma was a surprising one, but it was ultimately a decision he had to make for his growth as a player and a person. With his move to Auburn, he is now ready to prove that his best days are ahead of him. The future is bright for the young quarterback, and with the support of a new team, Arnold is poised to take his game to the next level.
In Auburn, Arnold has found the fresh start he so desperately needed, and he’s excited to show the world what he can do. One thing is clear: Jackson Arnold’s journey is far from over. If anything, it’s just beginning.
