CJ Baxter Injury Update: Will Texas RB Return vs. Kentucky?

Texas running back CJ Baxter remains doubtful for the Longhorns’ upcoming SEC clash against Kentucky, continuing an absence that has stretched since their matchup with UTEP earlier this season. The status update was included in the latest SEC Student-Athlete Availability Report, released ahead of Saturday’s 6 p.m. ET kickoff on ESPN.

The update is part of a broader set of roster concerns for Texas, which also listed starting center Cole Hutson and wide receiver Aaron Butler as out. Star defender Jonathan Cunningham joins them on the unavailable list, tightening Steve Sarkisian’s depth options heading into a critical road game.

Texas Injury Concerns Deepen Ahead of Kentucky Game

The Longhorns will face Kentucky without several key contributors, according to the SEC availability report. Cole Hutson, the team’s starting center, will miss the contest, though Texas has not disclosed the nature of his injury. His absence could impact the stability of the offensive line, especially in pass protection and interior run blocking.

Wide receiver Aaron Butler and Star Jonathan Cunningham have also been ruled out, further limiting Sarkisian’s options on both sides of the ball. Meanwhile, Baxter’s status remains “doubtful,” indicating that while a return is not impossible, it is unlikely he will suit up against Kentucky. The sophomore running back has not played since Texas’ September game against UTEP, leaving the Longhorns leaning more heavily on their backfield depth.

Defensive back Xavier Filsaime, offensive lineman Connor Stroh, and defensive lineman Maraad Watson are all listed as questionable. Their availability could be determined closer to kickoff, as the SEC requires teams to provide a final update 90 minutes before game time. For Kentucky, key players including running back Jamarion Wilcox and linebacker Jacob Smith will be out, while receiver Troy Stellato and lineman Aba Selm are questionable.

Impact of CJ Baxter’s Absence and What It Means for Texas

Baxter’s continued absence has become a central storyline for Texas. A dynamic presence when healthy, he was expected to play a major role in the Longhorns’ ground attack this season. Without him, Sarkisian has rotated multiple backs to fill the void, but none have matched Baxter’s explosiveness or versatility. His absence could limit Texas’ ability to control the tempo against Kentucky’s physical defense.

The loss of Cole Hutson compounds the challenge. As the anchor of the offensive line, his absence could disrupt timing and communication in the trenches, especially against Kentucky’s aggressive front seven. Combined with injuries to key skill players, Texas may need to lean more on quarterback play and schematic adjustments to secure a road win.

The stakes are high: both Texas and Oklahoma are battling for position at the top of the SEC standings, and every conference game carries playoff implications. If Baxter remains sidelined beyond this week, his recovery timeline will become a growing concern for Longhorns fans hoping for a strong finish to the season.

For now, all eyes remain on the final pregame report. If Baxter is upgraded from doubtful to available, it could shift the offensive dynamic significantly. Until then, Texas will prepare to face Kentucky without one of its most promising young playmakers.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will CJ Baxter return for Texas?

Baxter is listed as doubtful for the game against Kentucky. His return timeline remains unclear, as he has not played since the UTEP matchup.

Q2: What happened to Cole Hutson?

The starting center was ruled out for the Kentucky game. Texas has not disclosed the nature of his injury.

Q3: Which other Longhorns are injured?

Aaron Butler and Jonathan Cunningham are out, while Xavier Filsaime, Connor Stroh, and Maraad Watson are questionable.

Q4: What time is the Texas vs. Kentucky game?

The game kicks off at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday and will be broadcast on ESPN.

Q5: How does the SEC injury reporting system work?

Teams must submit reports three days before kickoff, with daily updates and a final version 90 minutes before the game. Penalties apply for late or inaccurate reports.