CJ Baxter, a running back for the Texas Longhorns, was born in Orlando, Florida, on June 28, 2005. Baxter’s exceptional football skills and passion made him a highly sought-after recruit in college football. 

In Orlando, Baxter initially played at Edgewater High School. Throughout his time there, he accumulated 3,826 rushing yards and 57 touchdowns. The 2023 Under Armour All-American Game featured Brooks as a top player. He was a top performer and promising running back in high school, earning a five-star recruit status. Following his education, he chose to join the University of Texas at Austin as a valuable running back.

CJ Baxter’s early career and success at the University of Texas

Baxter has consistently delivered outstanding performances since becoming a part of Texas. He started the season as the running back and became the first true freshman since 1995, like Ricky Williams, to start the first game. Baxter participated in 12 games, with six of them as a starter, and accumulated 659 yards rushing along with five touchdowns. During his freshmen year, Baxter was honored with several awards, including All-American accolades. His strength and agility on the field did wonders for Texas, improving their position in the championships last season.

Baxter emerged as a crucial player for Texas’s Big 12 championship, leading them toward victory against Oklahoma State. His skills worked wonders for the team as he was ranked 12th-most rushing yards freshman in Texas history. The only setback was his injury last year, resulting in a loss of two consecutive games. As a second-year player, Baxter is anticipated to play a crucial role in the upcoming season. However, can he meet the expectations?

CJ Baxter’s injury status for the coming season

Texas running back CJ Baxter will miss the 2024 season after a massive torn LCL and PCL in his right knee during the fall camp practice session. The university confirmed this after the training camp. CJ Baxter was a top running back contender from the 2023 recruits. Following Jonathon Brooks’ move to the NFL, the Longhorns had high hopes for him to play a significant role this season.

Last season was also not good for Baxter in terms of injuries. Last fall, he withdrew from the starting role after Brooks injured his ACL during the TCU game. Despite this, Baxter concluded his freshman season with 659 yards rushing and five touchdowns from 138 attempts. Among freshmen, he was ranked 8th in rushing yards in FBS. Baxter also secured QB Quinn Ewers’ position, catching 24 passes for 156 yards in the passing game. The team will suffer definite losses and weak defense if he doesn’t play this season.

Jaydon Blue is being speculated as a potential choice for Texas following his outstanding performance last season — rushing for 398 yards and three touchdowns while also catching 14 passes for 135 yards and scoring once. It will be interesting to witness Jaydon’s performance in Baxter’s position. What are your thoughts on it? Do let us know in the comments!