Texas running back CJ Baxter has been medically cleared to resume football activities following a significant knee injury. The 6-foot-1, 215-pound sophomore, recognized for his burst and physicality, was recently seen back in action during team drills, igniting excitement across the program.
Baxter made history as the first true freshman running back to start a season opener for Texas since Ricky Williams in 1995. His comeback injects fresh energy into an already talented Longhorns backfield and offers a significant boost as the 2025 campaign approaches, signaling a key step forward for the offense.
CJ Baxter’s Comeback Energizes Texas Camp, Adds Depth Behind Arch Manning
Texas running back CJ Baxter has officially been cleared for football activities, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a severe knee injury.
The standout recruit, ranked as the top running back in the 2023 class, missed the 2024 season after suffering ACL and LCL tears in his right knee during an August practice.
On Wednesday, Inside Texas reported on X that Baxter is back on the practice field and actively participating in team drills. It is the first time he has been active since the injury, which required season-ending surgery and came just weeks before the start of the 2024 campaign.
🚨UPDATE:
Former 5 star and #1 RB in the Class of 2023 CJ Baxter has returned to the practice field and is cleared to play football👀
This is the first time Baxter has participated in drills since tearing both his LCL and ACL in his right knee last August🤘🏻 pic.twitter.com/UzGGwTKeUJ
— Inside Texas (@InsideTexas) June 18, 2025
As a freshman in 2023, the Orlando, Florida native quickly made an impact, rushing for 659 yards and five touchdowns while averaging 4.8 yards per carry. Baxter began the year as the starter, briefly missed time due to injury, then reclaimed the role following Jonathon Brooks’ ACL tear.
Fans welcomed Baxter’s return with enthusiasm.
“Can’t remember last time such a talented guy was this patient,” one supporter wrote.
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“We know you’ve worked hard to return. Welcome back. Now let’s kick some butt. Hookem!”
— 🤘🏻 Horns Up Always 🤘🏻 (@LonghornInOmaha) June 19, 2025
Despite Baxter’s absence in 2024, the Longhorns’ rushing attack remained effective. Quintrevion Wisner carried the load, finishing the season with 1,064 rushing yards and five touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per attempt.
Now entering his sophomore season, Baxter is set to pair with Wisner in what could be one of the most potent backfield duos in college football. The depth doesn’t end there. Highly rated 2024 signee Jerrick Gibson and Christian Clark, who also missed last season due to injury, provide even more firepower behind quarterback Arch Manning.
While how Baxter performs upon return remains to be seen, his presence alone is a significant boost. His comeback gives Texas a renewed offensive edge heading into the 2025 season.
