Following a disappointing overall season for the Texas Longhorns, CJ Baxter has announced his desire to enter the transfer portal. Presumably for a final season ahead of declaring for the NFL Draft in 2027. His decision seems not only to stem from a desire to improve his draft prospects, but also from a desire to be closer to home before becoming a professional.
Here are the top options for the running back standout.
Top 5 Landing Spots For CJ Baxter
#5 Florida Gators – SEC
The Gators are another option in the Sunshine State for the Orlando native. This would keep him in the SEC, and the Gators are known to use the running game as a key feature of their offense. Yet, the NIL money could potentially be higher further south, and Florida doesn’t scream stability at the moment.
#4 USC Trojans – Big Ten
A move to the Big Ten could give him some fresh air, and the Trojans under Lincoln Riley are an offensive powerhouse. They always look to be missing one key piece to make the College Football Playoff, and CJ Baxter could be it. Besides, Los Angeles has NIL money in spades. The one caveat? He would be even further away from his native Florida.
#3 Penn State Nittany Lions – Big Ten
Another Big Ten program, this one with a bit more history in the conference. This is a good destination for a running back targeting the NFL, as the Nittany Lions seem to perennially favor pro-style offenses. The caveat? They’re about to start a bit of a rebuild, having dispatched James Franklin, and it remains to be seen if the Orlando native can adapt to the cold weather of Happy Valley.
#2 Ohio State Buckeyes – Big Ten
This is Penn State, but improved. The Buckeyes are one of the top dogs in modern-day college football, and they offer a good system for running backs to prepare for the NFL. There’s also the added incentive of chasing a natty. However, he would have to fight for time against Bo Jackson, who’s fresh out of an outstanding freshman season. Besides, the cold and the distance from Florida.
#1 Miami Hurricanes – ACC
Seems like the perfect match. Lots of NIL money around, close to home, and with a program that can challenge at least for a CFP spot (They just got one, despite all the controversy). Besides, Mario Cristobal already showed his interest. They were one of the top schools recruiting him out of high school.
Read More:
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- As Notre Dame Mourns, Mario Cristobal Shares Fascinating Personal Story About Miami’s CFP Qualification
- “Didn’t Qualify and Now Have a Temper Tantrum”: Fans Furious After Notre Dame Declines Bowl Bid Following CFP Snub
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