Texas Longhorns Running Game Gets a Boost with Key Transfers
AUSTIN, Texas - Just over a year ago, Tashard Choice, then the running backs coach for the Texas Longhorns, was confident in his squad's depth and talent. He believed in developing players from within, steering clear of transfers. But fast forward to now, and the landscape has shifted dramatically for the Longhorns.
The 2025 season saw the Longhorns grappling with challenges in their running game. Despite a promising start, injuries and performance issues plagued the backfield.
Quintrevion Wisner and CJ Baxter, both key players, faced early-season hamstring injuries. Meanwhile, Christian Clark and Jerrick Gibson struggled to find their rhythm, with Gibson eventually leaving mid-season to preserve a redshirt.
The stats tell the story: Texas tied for 78th nationally in runs of 10-plus yards, a far cry from their explosive past. With head coach Steve Sarkisian now on his second running backs coach since Choice's departure, the need for change was clear.
Enter Raleek Brown from Arizona State and Hollywood Smothers from NC State. These transfers are part of the largest NCAA transfer portal class Sarkisian has brought in during his tenure. The duo is set to inject much-needed speed and versatility into the Longhorns' offense.
Brown, at 5’9 and 195 pounds, brings a breakaway percentage of 45.8 and a knack for explosive plays, having logged 31 runs of 10-plus yards last season. His versatility is further highlighted by his stint as a wide receiver at USC. Smothers, standing at 5’11 and 195 pounds, boasts an impressive 52.3 breakaway percentage and a strong receiving game, with 37 catches for 189 yards last season.
Sarkisian emphasized the fit of these players with Texas' style. "We have to get back to being the explosive offense that we’re accustomed to," he said. "Brown and Smothers are versatile, explosive, and capable of making big plays both on the ground and through the air."
The addition of these two players wasn't just about filling gaps but about building a dynamic and cohesive unit. Despite initial links to other potential recruits, landing Brown and Smothers was a strategic win for Texas, even flipping Smothers from Alabama without relying heavily on NIL incentives.
Smothers' motivation is clear: "I honestly just want to win," he stated. This winning mentality has fostered a strong bond between him and Brown, making them one of the closest pairs on the team since their arrival.
Sarkisian is optimistic about the impact of these transfers. "To get two experienced players that have done it at a high level at the Power Four level, all-conference type players, I think is going to benefit us, and I think it’s going to benefit them in the long run as well."
As the Longhorns look to reclaim their explosive identity, Brown and Smothers could be the catalysts for a resurgence in Texas' running game.