Just under a year ago, the Texas Longhorns were devastated to hear that their projected starting running back, CJ Baxter, had torn both his LCL and ACL. Then, a few days later, it was announced that backup running back Christian Clark had torn his Achilles tendon and would also miss the entire season.
Now, the Horns can see the light at the end of the tunnel. On Wednesday, June 18, it was announced that Baxter had returned to practice and was officially cleared to play football.
Baxter was the heir-apparent after star running backs Jonathon Brooks, Bijan Robinson, and Roschon Johnson headed to the NFL. His injury prevented him from taking a seat on the RB1 throne.
Last year, the Longhorns relied on Quintrevion Wisner, Jaydon Blue, Jerrick Gibson, and a handful of other running backs to carry the rushing duties. Now, Blue has signed with the Dallas Cowboys, and Wisner is expected to take a back seat if Baxter can return to his full form.
🚨UPDATE:
— Inside Texas (@InsideTexas) June 18, 2025
Former 5 star and #1 RB in the Class of 2023 CJ Baxter has returned to the practice field and is cleared to play football👀
This is the first time Baxter has participated in drills since tearing both his LCL and ACL in his right knee last August🤘🏻 pic.twitter.com/UzGGwTKeUJ
The return of Baxter is massive news for the Longhorns' offensive depth chart. With veteran players reaching the end of their eligibility and many heading to the NFL, Texas's offense is going to look extremely young next season.
Baxter provides the experience that the Horns and head coach Steve Sarkisian need in order to support newly-minted QB1 Arch Manning and a lineup of relatively young players.
Before his injury, Baxter was already turning into a star for Texas. During the 2023 season, he had 138 carries for 659 yards and five touchdowns (all while playing a supporting role to Brooks). He also had 24 receptions for an additional 156 yards through the air.
To put it simply, Baxter's return is equivalent to the return of the prodigal son for the Texas football program. Sarkisian, the Longhorns, and their fans should all be extremely excited about this news.