Bama QB Jalen Hurts Headed To Oklahoma

TUSCALOOSA, AL - After weeks of speculation, Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts announced Wednesday he will be taking snaps next season at the University of Oklahoma. Hurts graduated from Alabama in December, and under NCAA transfer rules, is immediately eligible to play for the Sooners in the fall.

Hurts made the announcement via an article he penned for The Players Tribune, a website started by former New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter as a forum for athletes to interact with fans. Hurts said in the article, titled "To My Alabama Family," that, "I’ve decided to take my talents to the University of Oklahoma, where I will continue my development as both a quarterback and as a student."

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Hurts stressed that he enjoyed his three years in Tuscaloosa. "I have graduated from the University of Alabama with my bachelor’s degree in public relations — and I couldn’t be prouder. This accomplishment means so much to me.

"But the education that I received at Alabama goes beyond a degree. Coach Saban taught me the values and principles of business, as well as what it takes to be a great leader. My teammates taught me the importance of togetherness, brotherhood, and love. And this past season……. it taught me a lifetime’s worth of lessons about how to deal with adversity.

"Now, I’m an alumnus of the University of Alabama. Now I’m Bama for LIFE — and that right there will never change!"

Hurts was the 2016 SEC Offensive Player of the Year as a true freshman after passing for 2,780 yards and 23 touchdowns, and rushing for 954 yards and 13 touchdowns. He leaves Tuscaloosa with 5,626 passing yards and 1,976 rushing yards.

Oklahoma has produced the last two Heisman Trophy winners in quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray.

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images