John Mateer, born in 2003 in Little Elm, Texas, is an American football quarterback celebrated for his powerful arm, mobility, and sharp football IQ. Rising from a record-setting high school career to leading the Washington State Cougars, Mateer’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and continuous growth. His dual-threat capabilities have drawn comparisons to some of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football, blending precision passing with explosive runs.
In 2024, Mateer became one of the standout players in the Pac-12, steering Washington State to an impressive 8-win season. Now entering the transfer portal, he’s become one of the most sought-after talents in college football — a testament to his talent, discipline, and rising market value in the NIL era.
Quick Facts of John Mateer
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Mateer |
| Date of Birth | 2003 |
| Place of Birth | Little Elm, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Weight | 219 lbs (99 kg) |
| High School | Little Elm High School |
| College | Washington State University |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Jersey Number | 10 |
| Class | Redshirt Sophomore |
| Relationship Status | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth (Est.) | Not publicly disclosed; significant NIL interest |
| Major Achievements | 2024 WSU starting QB, 44 total TDs, 8-win season, record-setting high school career |
Early Life and Family Background
John Mateer grew up in Little Elm, Texas, where athleticism ran in the family. His parents, Stephen and Judy Mateer, both competitive swimmers, encouraged sportsmanship and discipline from an early age. His father’s experience as a swimming coach at the Lakeside Aquatic Club instilled in John a love for structured competition, though his passion ultimately led him toward football.
Mateer’s sister, McKayla, also pursued athletics, rounding out a family deeply rooted in sports. Despite his parents’ aquatic background, John gravitated toward football — a decision that would soon redefine his life trajectory.
High School Career: Records and Recognition
Mateer’s football journey began at Little Elm High School, where he quickly established himself as a standout quarterback. As a four-year starter, he shattered school records and displayed early signs of leadership and versatility.
- Junior Year (2020): Threw for a school-record 2,268 yards, including a 497-yard game vs. Allen High School.
- Senior Year (2021): Earned District 5-6A Offensive Player of the Year, throwing for 2,449 yards and 23 touchdowns, while adding 847 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns.
By graduation, he had amassed 7,060 passing yards and 88 total touchdowns, securing multiple school records and drawing interest from several Division I programs.
College Career and Key Milestones
A three-star recruit, Mateer committed to Washington State University (WSU) in 2022. After redshirting his freshman year, he gained valuable experience in 2023, completing 13 of 17 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns.
His breakout came in 2024, when he was named the starting quarterback. That season, Mateer threw for 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns, while rushing for 826 yards and 15 rushing touchdowns — leading the nation with 44 total touchdowns.
One of his standout games came in a 70–30 victory over Portland State, where he threw for 352 yards and five touchdowns, adding another score on the ground. His leadership and athleticism made him one of the top quarterbacks in the Pac-12, earning national recognition.
Recent Developments and Transfer News
As of December 2024, John Mateer announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, signaling the end of his time at WSU. The decision came despite a lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer exceeding $1 million from the university’s collective.
Mateer’s choice to explore new opportunities has made headlines, with analysts predicting strong interest from powerhouse programs nationwide. He will not participate in WSU’s upcoming Holiday Bowl matchup against Syracuse.
Personal Life and Relationships
Mateer maintains a private personal life, keeping details about his relationships and family largely out of the public eye. His social media presence focuses primarily on football, training, and motivational content, highlighting his grounded and focused demeanor.
Net Worth and NIL Market Value
While exact figures remain undisclosed, John Mateer’s NIL valuation is rising rapidly. The reported $1M+ offer from WSU’s NIL program underscores his growing brand appeal. With his transfer portal entry, new deals from apparel companies, training brands, and sports collectives are expected to follow.
His future income will likely come from endorsement partnerships, appearance fees, and potential early entry into professional football leagues.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Comes from a family of competitive swimmers, yet chose football as his true passion.
- Holds multiple records at Little Elm High School for passing and total touchdowns.
- Known for his dual-threat ability, balancing accurate passing with elite mobility.
- Became one of the most-watched names in the 2024–25 transfer portal window.
Charitable Impact and Legacy at WSU
While not publicly affiliated with specific charities, Mateer’s leadership and community presence have inspired younger athletes within the Washington State football program. Coaches and teammates describe him as disciplined, team-oriented, and humble — qualities that will define his legacy in Pullman.
Future Plans and Career Outlook
As John Mateer enters the next phase of his career, the football community eagerly watches where he will land next. His transfer decision could significantly shape college football dynamics in 2025, especially given his proven leadership and offensive production.
With elite stats, rising NIL potential, and a hunger to compete at the highest level, Mateer’s trajectory points toward national prominence — possibly as one of the next great quarterbacks to emerge from college football.
Conclusion
John Mateer’s rise from Little Elm’s football fields to the national stage is a story of ambition, focus, and heart. Whether leading Washington State or preparing for new challenges ahead, his journey reflects the evolving world of college sports — where talent, opportunity, and character converge. The next chapter of his story is just beginning, and fans are ready to follow wherever he goes next.
