The Texas Longhorns were dealt a massive blow after star running back CJ Baxter was ruled out for the entire 2024 season.
Doak Walker Award hopes are now dashed for the sophomore from Orlando, and the Longhorns will have to rely on their depth to tote the rock.
What happened to CJ Baxter, and who will replace him?
What Happened to Texas RB CJ Baxter?
Baxter, the No. 1 running back in the 2023 class, per 247 Sports, had trouble staying healthy as a true freshman last season, but he still managed to appear in 13 games, rushing for 659 yards and five touchdowns, with another 156 yards receiving on 24 catches.
On a clear path as the Longhorns’ No. 1 back and his sights set on a breakout season, Baxter suffered a torn LCL/PCL at fall camp practice on Tuesday, according to OrangeBloods.com reporter Anwar Richardson. Baxter’s recovery is expected to take between six to nine months.
An announcement from the school confirmed the injury: “Texas sophomore running back CJ Baxter sustained a knee injury in practice on Tuesday, will undergo surgery, and will be out for the season.”
Baxter was one of 88 players named to the Doak Walker Award Watch List. The award is given annually to college football’s top running back. Four Longhorns have won the award five different times in years past – Bijan Robinson (2022), D’Onta Foreman (2016), Cedric Benson (2004), and Ricky Williams twice (1997, 1998).
Fortunately for Texas, Baxter’s immediate backup also made the Doak Walker Award Watch List – Jaydon Blue. A 6’0″, 200-pound battering ram, Blue gained recognition despite only rushing 65 times for 398 yards and three touchdowns last season.
After averaging 6.1 yards per carry off the bench, Blue was anticipated to receive a lot of touches this upcoming season, even before Baxter’s injury. With other leading rushers from last year gone — like Jonathan Brooks, who is now on the Carolina Panthers after gaining 1,139 yards last season — Blue will be the Longhorn’s bell cow for the foreseeable future.