Former Oklahoma Offensive Lineman Nate Anderson, who struggled to secure a spot in the Sooners’ lineup during his first four years, has decided to pursue new opportunities at SMU, announcing his transfer on Monday. Despite his efforts, Anderson couldn’t crack the starting lineup at Oklahoma and is now looking to make an impact a few hours south of Norman.
A fourth-year junior offensive lineman, Anderson hails from the Dallas suburb of Frisco, TX, where he excelled at Reedy High School. Returning home to the Metroplex, Anderson brings two years of eligibility with him to SMU.
In his time with the Sooners, Anderson redshirted in 2020 and saw no game action in 2021. During his third-year sophomore season in 2022, he played 36 snaps in four games before transitioning to a special teams role in 2023, participating in all 12 games and logging 109 special teams snaps, primarily on the field goal and extra point unit. Additionally, he made appearances in two offensive games, with 32 snaps against Arkansas State and four against Tulsa.
Looking ahead, Anderson could have potentially contributed more on offense in 2024 with the Sooners, as they are set to replace their entire starting offensive line. However, seniors Walter Rouse and McKade Mettauer graduated, senior Andrew Raym and junior Tyler Guyton opted for the NFL Draft, and freshman Cayden Green unexpectedly entered the transfer portal.
Despite the impending reconstruction of the Sooners’ offensive line, Anderson sees a promising path to playing time for SMU in 2024 under Rhett Lashlee’s coaching. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 305 pounds, Anderson was a highly regarded prospect in high school, earning Under Armour All-American status and a consensus 4-star rating. He was ranked as the No. 66 recruit in the nation (No. 2 among offensive guards) by 247 Sports, No. 67 by ESPN, and No. 169 by Rivals. Ultimately choosing Oklahoma over Baylor, TCU, USC, and others, Anderson now looks forward to making a significant impact with the Mustangs.
Done deal!
🤝
I’m coming home… #PonyUp pic.twitter.com/7T09y3blbK
— Nate Anderson (@ndatexas) December 18, 2023
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