Confirmed: Oklahoma Sooner Star Decides to Make Risky Move That Sends Shockwaves Through College Football
NORMAN, Okla. — (June 8, 2025)
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Jalen Ricks has confirmed that he is forgoing his final two years of eligibility to pursue a professional football opportunity — not in the NFL, but in a startup international league based in Europe, raising eyebrows and serious questions about the future of college athlete mobility.
The 20-year-old sophomore phenom, widely projected as a future first-round NFL Draft pick, made the announcement via social media and later confirmed it in a short video statement that left fans, coaches, and analysts stunned.
“I’ve decided to take a different path,” Ricks said. “After talking with my family and representatives, I’m going to join the European Pro Football League this fall. It’s a huge risk, I know, but it’s something I believe will help me grow as a player and a person.”
A Dangerous Gamble?
Ricks’ decision is being viewed by many as high-risk, high-reward — and possibly career-altering. The European Pro Football League (EPFL), which launched earlier this year with major private investment, has drawn some attention but lacks the infrastructure, scouting exposure, and medical support that top-tier NCAA programs like Oklahoma provide.
“This is a dangerous move,” said one Big 12 assistant coach. “He’s walking away from elite training, coaching, and national exposure. There’s no guarantee that league will even finish its season.”
Others are questioning the motives behind the move. Rumors have circulated that Ricks was offered a multi-million-dollar contract plus equity in the league, making him the poster child for the EPFL’s aggressive campaign to recruit American talent. Neither Ricks nor his agent have confirmed the financial details.
Lincoln Riley Reacts
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables expressed disappointment but wished Ricks well in a statement:
“Jalen has been an incredible leader and teammate during his time here. We’re obviously surprised by his decision, but we respect it. This isn’t something we expected, but we’ll adapt.”
Venables confirmed the Sooners will now turn to redshirt freshman QB Tyrese Howard as the likely starter heading into summer camp.
NCAA and NIL Fallout
Ricks’ decision is already sparking renewed debate about NIL regulations, player autonomy, and the long-term sustainability of college football’s current structure. While players now have the freedom to earn money and move schools, jumping to unregulated, foreign professional leagues is largely uncharted territory.
College football analyst Kirk Herbstreit called it “a line-crossing moment.”
“We’ve seen transfers, NIL drama, even mid-season opt-outs. But this? A star leaving for a foreign league before even reaching the NFL Combine? This changes everything.”
What’s Next for Ricks?
The EPFL’s inaugural season kicks off in August in Frankfurt, Germany, and features teams from eight European cities. Ricks is expected to debut as the starting quarterback for the Paris Phantoms, a team that has aggressively marketed itself as the league’s centerpiece.
Despite the backlash, Ricks seems resolute:
“People will doubt it. That’s fine. I’m betting on myself.”
Whether the gamble pays off — or becomes a cautionary tale — remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: college football will be watching closely.
And Oklahoma fans will be left wondering — what could’ve been?
