Quarterback Arch Manning’s Texas Longhorns have failed to qualify for the College Football Playoff, and some players are already on their way out. Among them is running back CJ Baxter, who reportedly plans to enter the transfer portal.
The Longhorns finished with a 9-3 record, and it’s nearly not enough to make it to the playoffs, given that even 10-2 Notre Dame and Vanderbilt were left out. The Longhorns had a tough season despite starting as among the favorites.
On3’s Pete Thamel reported the news on X:
“NEWS: Texas tailback CJ Baxter intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal, he tells ESPN. Baxter earned Big 12 offensive newcomer of the year in 2023, rushing for 659 yards and 4.8 yards per carry.”
NEWS: Texas tailback CJ Baxter intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal, he tells ESPN. Baxter earned Big 12 offensive newcomer of the year in 2023, rushing for 659 yards and 4.8 yards per carry. pic.twitter.com/W0cTpLCcpI
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 8, 2025
Fans reacted to the development with some throwing shade at the program’s shortcomings.
“Should’ve went to Miami but he chose the bag 💰” one fan commented.
“Opposing fanbases in the comments thinking he’s bag chasing when in reality this is just a sad but necessary (and most likely amicable) parting of ways. Sark and CJ love each other,” another fan added.
“He’s Texas Tech’s if we want him and he’s okay getting third string reps,” another fan wrote.
“Another promising career ruined in Austin,” one fan posted.
“He can come be Texas Tech’s 4th string RB if he wants to play for the best team in Texas,” one fan wrote.
“Oh, here we go—CJ Baxter’s hitting the transfer portal after a Big 12 newcomer of the year season. 659 yards, 4.8 YPC, and now he’s shopping himself around like a free agent. Texas fans are gonna feel that one—losing your top tailback isn’t exactly a confidence booster,” another fan added.
CJ Baxter’s Tenure With Arch Manning’s Texas
CJ Baxter was the top-ranked recruit in the Class of 2023 and he started as a freshman, recording 659 yards and 5 TDs.
His 2024 season was derailed by a serious knee injury requiring season-ending surgery. In 2025, he returned but saw limited production. He rushed for 196 yards on 54 carries.
The Longhorns will also need to make some transfer portal moves as they will aim to return stronger after missing their first playoffs in three seasons.
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