Coming off a season where OU’s top tight end was a converted linebacker, the position became a clear point of emphasis in the offseason. OU added depth through the transfer portal, including Hayden Hansen, a Florida transfer and redshirt junior who is one of three new additions ahead of the 2026 campaign. Hansen has already noticed a key difference at OU, pointing to team culture as what separates the Sooners from his former program.
“This is a real team, it's a real brotherhood,” said Hansen. “These guys go out there and die for each other.”
Hansen, who will be playing his fifth year this fall, has accumulated 611 yards and five touchdowns over his time with Florida. He’ll be a veteran presence in a tight end room that has struggled in depth throughout recent seasons.
Joining Hansen in the room are fellow transfer additions Rocky Beers, a senior from Colorado State and the brother of standout women’s basketball player Raegan Beers, and Jack Van Dorselaer, a sophomore transfer from Tennessee who is expected to slot in behind the two veterans. Hansen noted how important it is for the three to gain respect with their quarterback as spring rolls on.
“We know that we're coming in here and we haven't earned anyone’s respect,” said Hansen. “It's on me, it's on Beers, on all of us to earn Mateer’s respect.”
To earn respect as a tight end, establishing a presence in the run game is essential. With OU still searching for consistency on the ground, and its last 1,000-yard rusher coming in Eric Gray in 2022, getting back on track in the run game has remained a key focus over the offseason.
“I got some news for you guys. (The run game is) here, and it's looking good,” said Hansen. “We're pounding the rock every practice. It's a beautiful thing to see…we are moving the rock, and we are doing it well.”
With more Southeastern Conference experience than much of the roster, Hansen noted that while there is still progress to be made, OU appears to be on track to build on where it left off heading into the 2026 season.
“We are definitely on the right track. My prediction, by the end of fall camp, we're going to be right where we left off in that playoff game,” said Hansen.
The Florida Gators football transfer will look to make his presence felt first in the spring game at noon on April 18 at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
This story was edited by Laurie Jones.
