Texas freshman running back CJ Baxter ruled out of Rice game with undisclosed injury

Replacing Bijan Robinson is no easy task, especially when a freshman is slotted into the starting role. Even so, Texas has a lot of faith in what CJ Baxter brings to the table. After making an early impact on Saturday against Rice, Baxter went down with an injury in the second quarter and seemingly grabbed his shoulder.

Since then, Baxter has not returned to the field. An update has finally been provided on the running back, coming via FOX’s Allison Williams. Baxter will not be returning to the game but has not officially announced what he is dealing with.

“Guys, I just want to update you on Texas running back CJ Baxter,” Williams said. “We saw him struggle off the field in the second quarter after a pretty big hit. He has not returned to the game and he has been officially been ruled out for the rest of this game. The official injury not being released by Texas but he will not return. Which, I know is disappointing for them. They are really high on the young running back.”

Baxter played high school football at Orlando (FL) Edgewater, where he was a five-star prospect. He was the No. 30 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Before exiting the game, Baxter was productive in limit carries. He will finish his collegiate debut with 38 rushing yards on just five touches. Head coach Steve Sarkisian was not able to get Baxter involved in the passing game.

Now, the question becomes whether or not Baxter is going to be available next week. Texas has a huge game against Alabama in Tuscaloosa, wanting to get revenge from a year ago. Having Baxter on the field would be a huge boost for the run game. His size and ability are what the Longhorns need going up against the Crimson Tide defensive front.

If Baxter does wind up unavailable, Jonathon Brooks will likely become the true bell-cow for Texas. Jaydon Blue showed flashes against Rice too, being a weapon out of the backfield. There will be options for Sarkisian when going up vs. Alabama.

For the time being, an update will have to come from Sarkisian potentially during his postgame press conference. Everyone involved with the Texas program will be hoping for positive news on the talented freshman running back.