Why did CJ Baxter commit to the Texas Longhorns? Surprisingly, it has nothing to do with Steve Sarkisian, who has the most successful offensive strategy in Forty Acres history.
In a recent interview with the 3rd & Longhorn Podcast, Baxter stated that running backs coach Tashard Choice was the selling point for coming to Austin. After seeing the success of Doak Walker Award winner Bijan Robinson and consistent No. 2 option Roschon Johnson, it was evident that studying from the senior coach would enhance his career.
“We know what he does coaching wise on the field but my biggest thing with him was off the field,” he remarked. “When I chat to him, he’s a really nice guy. “He is very genuine.”
Choice, who joined the Longhorns from Georgia Tech, has a track record of producing strong runners. Jahmyr Gibbs had just finished two seasons averaging 5.2 yards per carry before joining Alabama.
Baxter, a native of Orlando, Fla., grew and thrived during summer exercises and at fall camp. He became the first running back since Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams in 1995 to start the season’s first game as a true freshman.
Redshirt sophomore Jonathon Brooks finally exceeded both Baxter and Jaydon Blue by Week 3, rushing for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns before tearing his ACL against TCU in mid-November. With Brooks out, Baxter was put back into the starting job generated an average of 6.2 yards per attempt.
Baxter commended Choice’s mentorship for his accomplishment, describing him as more of a family member than a coach.
“Outside of my Dad and Grandad, he’s probably the third-most important person in my life man-wise,” Baxter remarked. “He’s the whole reason I came here.” Brooks is heading to the NFL, while the Longhorns are off to the SEC.
Baxter was projected to be a rotational back in Year 1, but ended up strengthening his stat line and becoming a regular in Sarkisian’s play plan.
Texas continues to produce NFL-ready tailbacks. Baxter, who is not eligible to declare until 2026, may be a first-round pick for clubs looking for more consistency on the ground.
Baxter does not regret the decision to work with Choice, and the Longhorns are reaping from the success into a new era of football at Royal-Memorial Stadium.
