Why did Oklahoma RB Jovantae Barnes enter the transfer portal?

Jovantae Barnes entered the transfer portal to preserve his redshirt season and seek new opportunities elsewhere after playing in only four games this season.

What are Jovantae Barnes' career stats at Oklahoma?

Jovantae Barnes finished his Oklahoma career with 1,281 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, and 28 receptions for 188 yards and one receiving touchdown.

When did Jovantae Barnes play his last game for the Sooners?

Barnes last played in the Sooners' first four games of the season, opting out of further participation to preserve his redshirt.

Home / Sports / Sooners RB Barnes Enters Transfer Portal

Sooners RB Barnes Enters Transfer Portal

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Running back Jovantae Barnes enters the transfer portal on January 2nd.
Barnes preserved his redshirt season by playing in only four games.
He finished his OU career with 1,281 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.

Sooners RB Barnes Enters Transfer Portal

Oklahoma running back Jovantae Barnes has officially entered the NCAA Transfer Portal as of January 2nd. This decision was widely anticipated since October, as Barnes played in only four games this season, a move that allowed him to preserve his redshirt eligibility.

Throughout his career, Barnes rushed for 1,281 yards and 12 touchdowns, also adding 28 catches for 188 yards and a touchdown. In his freshman year, he amassed 519 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Despite injuries impacting his 2023 and 2024 seasons, he showed flashes of brilliance, including a career-best 203 rushing yards against Maine in 2024.

Barnes' decision to enter the portal marks the end of his four-year tenure with the Sooners. His limited participation this past season ensured he could transfer and play elsewhere with his redshirt intact, providing an opportunity for a fresh start.