The Transfer Portal Is About to Explode - And Caleb Hawkins Is the Name Everyone Wants
The college football offseason is about to hit full throttle. With the Transfer Portal officially opening on January 2nd, programs across the country are bracing for the chaos - and opportunity - that comes with it.
While the portal hasn’t technically opened yet, the wheels are already turning. Thousands of players have announced their intentions to transfer, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most talent-rich portal cycles we’ve seen.
At the heart of it all? Caleb Hawkins.
The North Texas freshman running back didn’t just flash potential - he delivered a full-blown breakout. After arriving in Denton as a relatively low-profile recruit, Hawkins exploded onto the scene with 1,434 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns.
Add another 370 yards and 4 scores through the air, and you’re looking at one of the most complete freshman seasons in recent memory. With three years of eligibility still on the table, Hawkins has positioned himself as the No. 1 running back in this year’s portal class - and one of the most coveted players overall.
So where might he land? Let’s break down three ideal destinations for one of the most electric backs in the country.
1. Oklahoma State Cowboys: The Familiar Fit
There’s a lot that makes sense about Hawkins reuniting with Eric Morris at Oklahoma State. Morris, who helped orchestrate Hawkins’ breakout season at North Texas, is now in Stillwater - and it wouldn’t be surprising to see his former star follow him there. Add in the fact that fellow North Texas players Drew Mestemaker and Wyatt Young are also in the portal, and the idea of this trio sticking together starts to feel more like a plan than a coincidence.
For Hawkins, Oklahoma State offers the chance to stay in-state - he’s from Shawnee, OK - and continue thriving in an offensive system that already knows how to maximize his skill set. The Cowboys could use a dynamic, all-purpose back like Hawkins to stabilize their offense and give them a proven weapon in the Big 12. If familiarity and fit matter - and they usually do - Oklahoma State has to be viewed as the frontrunner.
2. Oklahoma Sooners: The In-State Power Play
If Oklahoma State can’t lock him down, their in-state rival might have something to say about it. The Sooners are coming off a season where their run game never really found its footing.
Despite having a trio of backs in Tory Blaylock, Xavier Robinson, and Jaydn Ott, the unit couldn’t even crack 1,000 combined rushing yards. That’s a problem - especially if quarterback John Mateer returns and the Sooners want to take some of the pressure off his shoulders.
Enter Caleb Hawkins.
Hawkins brings the kind of explosiveness and versatility that can instantly transform a backfield. He’s a home-run hitter who can also grind out tough yards, and his ability as a pass-catcher adds another layer to any offense. For a program like Oklahoma, which is always expected to contend, adding a player like Hawkins could be the difference between another frustrating season and a legitimate playoff push.
3. Texas Longhorns: The Opportunity Is Wide Open
Texas has had a rough offseason in the running back room. Tre Wisner, CJ Baxter, Rickey Stewart Jr., and Jerrick Gibson - all gone to the portal. That’s not just a depth issue; that’s a full reset.
But here’s the thing about Texas under Steve Sarkisian: they don’t rebuild, they reload - and they’re not shy about going after top-tier talent to do it. The Longhorns have shown they’re willing to invest in elite players, and Hawkins fits the mold of the kind of back who can thrive in Austin.
With Arch Manning taking over the reins at quarterback, Texas needs a reliable run game to keep defenses honest and take pressure off their young signal-caller. Hawkins could step in immediately as the feature back and help balance the offense. His ability to contribute for multiple seasons only sweetens the deal.
Bottom Line
The portal opens in just a few days, but the race for Caleb Hawkins is already heating up. He’s not just the top running back available - he’s a game-changer with three years of eligibility and a proven track record of production. Whether he follows his former coach to Oklahoma State, stays close to home with the Sooners, or takes his talents to Austin, one thing is clear:
Wherever Caleb Hawkins lands, that team is getting a certified star.