Oregon State just added another piece to its backfield, and this one comes with SEC experience.
AJ Newberry, a former Vanderbilt running back, is heading west to join the Beavers. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound back made the announcement Saturday and brings two years of eligibility with him. He becomes the 21st transfer Oregon State has brought in this offseason-a clear signal that the program is aggressively reshaping its roster.
Newberry’s time at Vanderbilt showed flashes of potential, even if the workload was limited. In 2025, he logged 18 carries for 57 yards and found the end zone three times.
He also added a pair of receptions for 18 yards. The year prior, he saw a bit more action-41 carries for 185 yards and three touchdowns, along with seven receptions for 134 yards and two more scores.
Those numbers don’t jump off the page, but they hint at a versatile back who can contribute both on the ground and through the air.
Back in 2023, Newberry redshirted after appearing in four games, rushing 20 times for 96 yards. That early experience, even in a limited role, gave him a taste of SEC-level competition that could translate well in the Pac-12 landscape.
Originally a three-star prospect out of South Grand Prairie High School in Texas, Newberry was ranked No. 956 overall and the No. 63 running back in the 2023 class, according to the 247Sports Composite. While those rankings didn’t place him among the elite, his development since then suggests he could be a valuable rotational piece-or more-depending on how he fits into the Beavers’ offensive scheme.
For Oregon State, this is another strategic move in a busy offseason. The Beavers are clearly looking to reload quickly, and Newberry adds depth, experience, and a bit of SEC toughness to a running back room that will be looking for fresh contributors.
If he can stay healthy and make the most of his touches, Newberry could be one of those under-the-radar transfers who ends up playing a bigger role than expected.