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Oklahoma State quarterback Alan Bowman is one of the oldest players in college football. At 24 years of age, he was a seasoned veteran in Stillwater this past season.
Last year was his seventh in an NCAA uniform. Rumors of his return for an eighth year circulated this offseason. He shut them down on Monday.
Bowman was a member of the 2018 high school recruiting class alongside players like Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence. A three-star prospect, he initially signed with Texas Tech. The passer later transferred to Michigan where he was a backup before moving onto OSU.
With the Cowboys, he led the Big 12 in completions in 2023. In 2024, he threw for over 2,400 yards across 11 games. Unfortunately, Oklahoma State struggled on the field, going winless in conference play.
Bowman was benched after leading the league in interceptions for a second straight year. With his pro prospects uncertain, paired with that unexpected benching, many speculated that he’d return to college. That could be either with the Cowboys or another program via the transfer portal.
Some online accounts ran with the speculation. He wouldn’t be the first eighth-year player we’ve seen!
BREAKING: Oklahoma State QB Alan Bowman has won his appeal and has been granted an 8th year of eligibility. He is expected to stay with the Cowboys next season. pic.twitter.com/QNwPCgZ9Y4
— Derrico Henrio (@derrico_henrio) December 4, 2024
On Monday, Alan Bowman quieted the rumors with an announcement regarding his future. He’ll be pursuing an NFL career after all.
The passer announced his plan on social media, calling it an opportunity to chase a lifelong dream. He said seven years in college was more than enough!
Thank you for coming along. Time to chase a lifelong dream! Glory to God pic.twitter.com/wizGkDxCD6
— Alan Bowman (@alanbowman_) December 16, 2024
Given both age and production, Bowman isn’t expected to be one of the top signal callers off the board. In fact, there’s a possibility he doesn’t hear his name called across any of the seven NFL Draft rounds.
That doesn’t mean a professional future isn’t possible. He’ll look to finally take the next step in his football journey after seven NCAA seasons.