Drew Mestemaker, the talented quarterback from Oklahoma State, has been included on the prestigious Davey O'Brien watchlist, recognizing him as a leading contender for the nation's top passer award. After a standout season where he led the country in passing yards with 4,379, Mestemaker's recent transfer to OSU has positioned him alongside five other notable Big 12 quarterbacks. His accolades include being named the Big 12's Preseason Newcomer of the Year and securing the Burlsworth Trophy for the best walk-on in college football. The competitive landscape sees only six sophomores on the watchlist, emphasizing Mestemaker's emerging prowess in the sport. The award will be announced on ESPN with various phases leading up to the final selection in late November.

By the Numbers
  • Mestemaker led the country in passing yards last season with 4,379 yards.
  • He averaged 312.8 passing yards per game across 14 games.
State of Play
  • Mestemaker is one of six quarterbacks from the Big 12 on the Davey O'Brien watchlist.
  • He transferred to Oklahoma State from North Texas, reuniting with coach Eric Morris.
What's Next

The award stages will unfold with the Davey O'Brien Class of 2026 announced on November 10, followed by semifinalists on November 17 and finalists on November 24. The anticipation builds as experts and fans track Mestemaker's performance during the season, knowing it will significantly impact his candidacy for the award.

Bottom Line

Drew Mestemaker is positioned to make a substantial impact in the college football landscape this season, with the potential for a historic run at the Davey O'Brien trophy, setting the stage for the emergence of a future star in the sport.