Texas RB Room Clears for a Big Portal Swing in 2026
Just after Christmas, the Texas Longhorns took a notable hit to their backfield depth-but it might be the kind of hit that sets up a major move. Running back Quintrevion Wisner has officially entered the transfer portal after three seasons in Austin, and while his exit leaves a hole, it also opens the door wide for Texas to make a serious splash at the position heading into 2026.
Let’s be clear: Wisner wasn’t just another name on the depth chart. He earned his stripes early, making an impact on special teams as a true freshman before breaking out with a 1,000-yard campaign in 2024.
He followed that up by leading the team in rushing again this past season, proving himself to be a steady, durable presence in a backfield that saw plenty of turnover. His consistency was a rare constant in a group that never quite settled.
So yes, losing a back like Wisner stings. But it also signals something bigger-Texas isn’t just looking to fill a void. They’re looking to upgrade.
The timing of Wisner’s departure, combined with recent staff changes, has fans and insiders connecting the dots. One name that’s already circulating: Florida running back Jadan Baugh.
The Longhorns just hired Jabbar Juluke, Florida’s former running backs coach, and that connection could prove pivotal if Baugh decides to test the portal waters. He hasn’t entered yet, but if he does, Texas would immediately be a top contender-and a dangerous one at that.
But Baugh isn’t the only potential target. The portal is already filling up with proven talent.
NC State’s Hollywood Smothers, Jacksonville State’s Cam Cook, and Washington’s Adam Mohammed are all names worth watching. Each brings a different skill set, but all have the ability to contribute right away.
And make no mistake-Texas isn’t shopping for depth. They’re shopping for a difference-maker.
Even before Wisner’s decision, the Longhorns were trending toward the portal. The earlier exits of CJ Baxter, Rickey Stewart Jr., and Jerrick Gibson had already thinned the position.
Wisner was the last proven piece left. Now, the room is wide open, and the urgency is real.
As of now, the 2026 running back group includes James Simon, Michael Terry III, and Christian Clark, with freshmen Derrek Cooper and Jett Walker set to arrive early. There’s talent there-Clark finished the regular season with 131 rushing yards and a touchdown, and Simon showed promise in limited action, especially in the UTEP game-but at this point, neither has solidified themselves as the go-to back for a team with playoff aspirations.
That’s why this next move matters so much.
Wisner’s exit isn’t just a roster change-it’s a signal. Texas is gearing up to make a major addition in the backfield, and the transfer portal is where that addition will come from. The Longhorns are built to contend now, and they know they need a lead back who can carry that weight.
The runway is clear. Now it’s just a matter of who’s ready for takeoff in burnt orange.