There was no bigger need for Auburn in the transfer portal than quarterback.

Hugh Freeze took a big step toward filling that need early Saturday morning, securing a commitment from former Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold.

Arnold is the first of what will likely be two transfer quarterback commitments as Auburn looks to return to four scholarship players at the position. He will join freshman Walker White and 2025 signee Deuce Knight.

A former five-star recruit, Arnold spent two seasons at Oklahoma before entering the transfer portal. He started most of the year in 2024, but was briefly benched midway through the season. He did not play in Oklahoma’s 27-21 win over Auburn.

Arnold threw for 1,421 yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions in 2024 and ran for another 444 yards and three touchdowns. He further demonstrated his dual-threat ability in the second half of the season, rushing for 131 yards in Oklahoma’s 24–3 upset victory over Alabama.

Auburn hosted Arnold for a visit Friday and was able to secure his commitment, holding off Mississippi State who he would have visited next.

Peter Rauterkus covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on @peter_rauterkus or send him an email to [email protected]m