​Oklahoma State quarterback Drew Mestemaker has emerged as the standout recipient of the Big 12 Preseason Newcomer of the Year award, signaling big expectations for the redshirt sophomore who impressed at The Star in Frisco, Texas, during Big 12 Media Days. As Oklahoma State enters a new era with head coach Eric Morris at the helm, the program moves forward after Mike Gundy’s lengthy tenure concluded in 2025. Morris, who made the jump from North Texas, brought his starting quarterback with him, as Mestemaker followed along to lead the Cowboys in this next chapter.
During his media appearances last week, Morris spoke highly of Mestemaker, sharing messages he had received about the quarterback’s talent as well as overwhelming praise for his character. “I got several text messages about how talented he is, but I also received just as many from friends and colleagues about how humble he is, how good of a person he is, and how effectively he communicates,” Morris said on the ESPNU broadcast of Big 12 Media Days. He added that Mestemaker’s ability to relate to and guide younger players is a trait that can elevate an entire team.
Mestemaker, who stood out at the Massing Passing Academy this summer, is making the leap from the American Athletic Conference to the Big 12. His career continues to mirror a pattern of steady ascent that has defined his journey so far. Social media enthusiasts were quick to note his development, with one post reflecting how compelling his throwing looks and how the offseason will be spent watching his throws repeatedly.
In high school, Mestemaker was the backup quarterback during his junior and senior years. The Austin native walked on at North Texas, arriving as a zero-star recruit. He began the 2024 season listed as the Mean Green’s QB5, and today he stands as the 2025 Burlsworth Trophy winner—a testament to his ascent from walk-on to standout collegiate performer. The Burlsworth Trophy honors the nation’s top player who began his collegiate career as a walk-on, underscoring Mestemaker’s remarkable trajectory and the broader trajectory of his draft stock.
This progress has not gone unnoticed by NFL scouts and general managers, who often look for players who consistently exceed expectations and push beyond perceived ceilings. Mestemaker’s path—from walk-on to conference preseason favorite to Burlsworth Trophy recipient and beyond—signals to NFL evaluators that his best is still ahead.
This piece originally appeared on Draft Wire and highlights how Mestemaker’s transfer to Oklahoma State could bolster his draft stock and enhance visibility for SEO purposes, reflecting the broader interest surrounding his evolving career.