CJ Baxter Transfer Portal Entry Shakes Texas Longhorns Backfield

The Texas Longhorns backfield is facing a major change. Star running back C.J. Baxter intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This news was reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel on December 8, 2025. It comes as Texas prepares for its Citrus Bowl matchup against Michigan.

Baxter’s decision creates a significant void in the offensive roster. The sophomore was the top-ranked high school running back in the 2023 recruiting class. His departure follows other offensive players entering the portal this cycle.

Promising Career Hampered by Injuries

C.J. Baxter showed immense promise early in his college career. As a true freshman in 2023, he rushed for 659 yards and five touchdowns. He earned Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors for that performance.

His subsequent seasons were disrupted by health issues. Baxter missed the entire 2024 season after a serious knee injury in practice. His 2025 campaign was limited to 54 carries for 196 yards, as he dealt with minor injuries and shared backfield duties.

Texas now must look internally for his replacement. Quintrevion Wisner finished the regular season as the team’s leading rusher with 597 yards. Redshirt freshman Christian Clark also showed potential in his return from an Achilles injury.

Texas’s Depth and Recruiting Pipeline Provide Cushion

Despite the loss, the Longhorns’ roster remains well-stocked at running back. The current roster includes experienced players like Wisner and Clark. Freshmen James Simon and others provide additional depth for the upcoming bowl game.

The program’s strong recruiting efforts will help fill the gap long-term. Texas has already secured commitments from two high-end 2026 running backs. This includes four-star Derrek Cooper, who is rated as the top back in his class by ESPN.

The immediate focus shifts to the Citrus Bowl on December 31. Coaches will need to adjust the offensive game plan without Baxter. This development marks another step in the constant roster evolution of modern college football.

The CJ Baxter transfer portal move underscores the transient nature of top college football talent. Texas will rely on its depth to finish the season strong in Orlando.

Thought you’d like to know

Who will replace CJ Baxter at running back for Texas?

Quintrevion Wisner is the immediate internal candidate. He was the team’s leading rusher in 2025. Christian Clark and others will also see increased opportunity.

What were CJ Baxter’s stats at Texas?

Baxter rushed for 659 yards and five touchdowns as a freshman in 2023. His 2025 season was limited, with 196 rushing yards on 54 carries. He also caught 12 passes for 41 yards this past year.

Why is CJ Baxter entering the transfer portal?

Specific reasons were not detailed in the initial report. The decision follows a season where he shared carries and dealt with minor injuries. Portal entries are common for players seeking a larger role.

How does this affect Texas’s bowl game preparation?

The coaching staff must adjust its offensive strategy for the Citrus Bowl. The run game distribution will change without Baxter. It provides other backs a chance to step up on a big stage.

Is Texas still deep at running back after this loss?

Yes, the roster retains several talented players. Strong recruiting classes also provide a cushion. The Longhorns are expected to remain competitive in the running game.