CJ Baxter Injury Scare: Texas Running Back Limps Off Field Against UTEP
In the opening moments of the game between the Texas Longhorns and the UTEP Miners, running back CJ Baxter suffered an apparent injury, leaving the field after the first offensive play. This setback raises concerns about his availability and the depth of the Texas backfield.
The Play and Immediate Aftermath
Baxter, a redshirt sophomore who had recently returned from a previous knee injury (ACL and LCL tears last summer), carried the ball for a six-yard gain on the game's first play. He then appeared to be favoring his leg, hobbling as he sought the attention of the Texas sideline. He subsequently limped off the field and consulted with the training staff, causing immediate worry among fans.
Impact on the Texas Backfield
Baxter was projected to be the starting running back for the Longhorns this season after his previous injury derailed his chances last year. His potential absence would force other running backs to step up. Following Baxter's departure, redshirt freshman Christian Clark, who also recovered from a knee injury last summer, entered the game, along with RB4 Jerrick Gibson. Quintrevion Wisner, who had seen playing time in Week 1, remained sidelined due to a "lower body" injury.
Baxter's Performance This Season
In the first two games of the season, Baxter had shown promise, leading Texas with 104 rushing yards and 22 receiving yards, affirming the hope of many Longhorns fans. He was seen entering the medical tent and then reportedly heading towards the team's locker room for further evaluation.
Context and Concerns
Prior to the UTEP game, no Texas running back had scored a touchdown, with quarterback Arch Manning having the team's only rushing touchdown. The Longhorns entered the game against UTSA needing to establish a consistent ground game. With Tre Wisner already out due to injury, Baxter's injury adds another layer of concern for the Texas offense. Coach Steve Sarkisian called a play for Baxter to begin the game, but the positive gain was quickly overshadowed by the visible limp that followed.
"CJ Baxter is limping off the field after the first offensive play of the game," Evan Vieth of On3's Inside Texas said via X. "Christian Clark now in."
