The Texas Longhorns are “not in a rush” to return CJ Baxter from his injury.

The Texas Longhorns’ football program is no stranger to high expectations, both within the state of Texas and on the national stage. With the program transitioning into the competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference and looking ahead to the future in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), the pressure to field a top-tier team is ever-present. One of the key components of any championship-contending team is a reliable and dynamic offense. For the Longhorns, that offense in 2025 was expected to revolve around the skills of freshman running back CJ Baxter, one of the most highly touted recruits in recent memory.

However, as is often the case with young athletes, injuries can throw a wrench in the best-laid plans. Baxter, who was expected to have an immediate impact on the field, has been dealing with an injury that has caused concern for the coaching staff, players, and fans alike. Despite the anticipation surrounding his return, the Longhorns’ coaching staff has made it clear that they are in no rush to bring Baxter back to the field before he is fully ready.

This measured and cautious approach is something that has become a hallmark of the Texas Longhorns under head coach Steve Sarkisian. The question of how to balance the immediate needs of a competitive team with the long-term development of a key player like Baxter is one that requires careful consideration. This article will explore the factors influencing the Longhorns’ decision to hold back on rushing Baxter’s return, the potential ramifications for the team, and the broader context of injury management in college football.

CJ Baxter’s Rise to Prominence

CJ Baxter’s arrival in Austin was met with great excitement. As one of the top running back recruits in the country, Baxter was widely regarded as a future star in college football. His combination of speed, power, vision, and pass-catching ability made him a versatile threat out of the backfield. During his high school career, Baxter amassed impressive statistics, leaving no doubt that he had the potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.

Baxter’s decision to commit to Texas was seen as a major win for the Longhorns, who have been working to rebuild their roster and return to prominence in the Big 12. He was part of a larger recruiting class that was expected to provide a foundation for the Longhorns’ success in the years to come.

Given his talent and high expectations, it was no surprise that Baxter was slated to be a centerpiece of the offense in 2025. With the departure of key players from previous seasons, including star running back Bijan Robinson, the Longhorns needed someone to step into the lead running back role. Baxter appeared to be the natural choice to fill that void and take the reins of the offense.

The Injury: What We Know

While Baxter’s journey to the starting role had been promising, it was derailed by an unfortunate injury. Details surrounding the exact nature of the injury remain somewhat limited, but reports suggest that it is a lower-body injury, possibly to his ankle or leg, that has kept him sidelined for a significant period of time.

In the world of college football, injuries are a common and often unpredictable part of the game. The fast-paced nature of the sport, coupled with the physical demands placed on athletes, makes it almost inevitable that players will face some form of injury during their careers. For a young player like Baxter, who is still adjusting to the intensity of the collegiate game, the risk of injury is even higher.

While the coaching staff has not specified a timeline for Baxter’s return, they have emphasized the importance of not rushing him back onto the field too soon. This cautious approach is in line with their broader philosophy of player development, which prioritizes the long-term health and well-being of athletes over short-term gains.

The Longhorns’ Approach: “Not in a Rush”

One of the key reasons for the Texas Longhorns’ decision to take a patient approach with Baxter’s recovery is the team’s overall depth at the running back position. While Baxter’s talent is undeniable, the Longhorns have other capable running backs who can carry the load in his absence. Running backs like Jonathan Brooks and Savion Red have proven themselves capable of stepping up and filling the void left by Baxter’s injury.

Brooks, in particular, has emerged as a reliable option out of the backfield. His ability to both run the ball effectively and contribute in the passing game makes him a valuable asset for the offense. With Brooks and Red in the rotation, the Longhorns can afford to take their time with Baxter, ensuring that he is fully healthy before returning to action.

Moreover, the coaching staff is well aware that rushing a player back from injury can have long-term consequences. Injuries, especially to key players like running backs, can have lingering effects if not managed properly. By allowing Baxter ample time to heal and recover, the Longhorns are hoping to avoid the risk of re-injury or a setback that could jeopardize his future success.

The importance of taking a measured approach is especially relevant in college football, where the intensity of the competition can take a toll on players’ bodies. Long seasons, grueling practices, and tough matchups can exacerbate injuries if players are not fully prepared. For this reason, the Longhorns’ staff has taken the stance that patience is key, and Baxter’s health is paramount.

The Big Picture: Building for the Future

The decision to prioritize Baxter’s long-term health over immediate playing time also speaks to the Longhorns’ broader vision for the future. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff have made it clear that they are building a program that is focused on sustainable success. Rushing Baxter back into action for the sake of a few games or early-season wins would go against the long-term goals of the program.

By focusing on developing a deep and balanced roster, the Longhorns are positioning themselves for success not just in 2025, but in the years to come. The development of young players like Baxter is crucial to this vision. If the Longhorns are to return to national prominence, they will need stars like Baxter to stay healthy and perform at a high level over the course of several seasons.

This long-term perspective is also reflective of the evolving nature of college football. With the upcoming move to the SEC, the competition will become even more intense, and the ability to develop talent across all positions will be more important than ever. The Longhorns’ ability to manage injuries effectively and keep their players healthy will be a key factor in their future success.

What This Means for the Team

The absence of CJ Baxter from the field raises some important questions about the Longhorns’ offensive identity in the short term. While the team has the luxury of depth at the running back position, it will inevitably miss Baxter’s explosiveness and playmaking ability. However, the coaching staff is confident in the ability of Brooks and Red to fill the void and ensure that the offense remains balanced and effective.

The Longhorns may also need to rely more heavily on their passing game to compensate for the absence of their star running back. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has shown flashes of brilliance, will need to continue developing into a leader under center. With a talented receiving corps at his disposal, including players like Xavier Worthy and Jordan Whittington, Ewers will need to shoulder more of the offensive workload in the early part of the season.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Longhorns’ success will also be critical to their overall performance. While offense often steals the spotlight, a strong defense can help the team weather the storm during offensive dry spells or while key players recover from injury. The Longhorns’ defense, under the leadership of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, will need to be a reliable unit that can keep the team in games while the offense adjusts to the absence of Baxter.

The Texas Longhorns are taking a patient and thoughtful approach to the return of CJ Baxter from his injury. While his talent and potential are undeniable, the coaching staff is committed to ensuring that he is fully healthy before returning to the field. This decision speaks to the larger goals of the program: to build a sustainable, competitive team for the future while prioritizing the long-term health and development of its players.

As the season progresses, the Longhorns will continue to rely on their depth at running back and the overall strength of their roster. The absence of Baxter is certainly a setback, but it is not a fatal blow. With a balanced and deep team, the Longhorns are well-positioned to weather this challenge and make a push toward success in the highly competitive landscape of college football. For CJ Baxter, the focus will remain on his recovery and eventual return to the field, where he can fulfill the promise that made him one of the most exciting recruits in the nation.

In the end, the Longhorns’ cautious approach to Baxter’s injury is a reflection of their commitment to doing what is best for the player, the team, and the future of the program. And as the saying goes, sometimes the best way to win is to play the long game.