Oklahoma State has landed another major piece for its future, and this one comes with eye-popping production. The Cowboys have secured a commitment from North Texas star freshman running back Caleb Hawkins, finishing off what was one of the most dangerous backfields in the country and injecting immediate optimism into a program searching for a reset.
CFB Rushing TD Leader Caleb Hawkins Commits to Oklahoma State
Hawkins announced his commitment on X, posting a picture of himself in an Oklahoma State uniform to make the news official after much speculation that this is where he would end up anyway.
Hawkins arrives in Stillwater after a historic freshman season at North Texas, where he emerged as one of the most productive running backs in all of college football. Despite not opening the year as the full-time starter, Hawkins led the nation with 23 rushing touchdowns, ranked 14th nationally in rushing yards with 1,236, and steadily took over games as the season progressed. His rise wasn’t just visible on the stat sheet; advanced metrics backed it up as well. Hawkins posted a PFSN RB Impact grade of 89.2, the ninth-highest among all FBS running backs.
100% committed🟠⚪️ @__CoachMorris @PCobbs43 @CowboyFB pic.twitter.com/up4NSRNCLV
— Caleb Hawkins (@CalebHawk2025) January 4, 2026
What makes Hawkins especially intriguing for Oklahoma State is his versatility. While his power and nose for the end zone headline his résumé, his impact in the passing game often flew under the radar. Hawkins totaled 345 receiving yards, ranking ninth among all running backs nationally, proving he can stay on the field in any situation. Whether it’s third down, two-minute drill, or red-zone offense, Hawkins offers a true “Swiss Army knife” skill set that modern offenses covet.
Oklahoma State’s New Dynamic Duo
His commitment also reunites him with a familiar face. Earlier, Oklahoma State landed star redshirt freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker, forming a dynamic tandem in the backfield that previously fueled North Texas’ offense. That Mean Green unit finished 22nd nationally, built on tempo, efficiency, and explosive playmaking, traits Oklahoma State has sorely missed.
The contrast is stark. In 2025, the Cowboys’ offense struggled mightily, posting a 68.7 offensive grade and ranking 112th nationally, a far cry from the high-scoring, aggressive Oklahoma State teams fans had grown accustomed to in the Big 12. Hawkins’ arrival represents more than just a transfer; it signals a philosophical shift.
With Eric Morris continuing to shape the program, the message is clear: this is a new regime with new life. Oklahoma State is betting that what worked at North Texas can translate to a Power 4 stage, and Hawkins is a cornerstone of that vision.
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up as a pivotal season. If Hawkins and Mestemaker can recreate their chemistry, this time with a different logo on their helmets, the Cowboys may finally be poised for a resurgence. For a program desperate for offensive identity and momentum, this commitment offers a compelling reason for optimism in Stillwater.
