GOOD NEWS: Texas Running Back Reveals New Number for 2025 Season
Excitement is brewing in Austin as the Texas Longhorns prepare for the 2025 season, and fans just got a fresh update that has the burnt orange faithful buzzing. Star running back CJ Baxter Jr. has officially announced he will wear a new jersey number for the upcoming season, switching from his previous No. 4 to No. 1 — a symbolic change that reflects his growing role as the leader of the Texas backfield.
The announcement was made via a short but impactful social media post on Sunday afternoon. Baxter shared a picture of his new locker setup, showcasing the crisp No. 1 jersey hanging prominently above his cleats, captioned: “New season. New number. Same mission.”
Baxter, a sophomore out of Orlando, Florida, was one of the top running backs in the 2023 recruiting class and played a significant role in Texas’ 2024 campaign. After a strong freshman season in which he rushed for over 800 yards and 7 touchdowns despite splitting carries, Baxter is expected to be the feature back in Steve Sarkisian’s offense this fall. The jersey number switch is more than cosmetic—it’s a declaration of intent.
“I wanted to wear No. 1 because I feel like I’ve earned the responsibility that comes with it,” Baxter said after Monday’s spring practice. “It’s a number that means something at Texas. It represents leadership, confidence, and being the guy everyone can count on. I’m ready to be that guy.”
Baxter’s decision was met with overwhelming support from his teammates and coaches. Running backs coach Tashard Choice, himself a former standout at the collegiate level, praised Baxter’s maturity and work ethic throughout spring camp.
“CJ’s not just a great player—he’s become a great teammate,” said Choice. “He’s been working every day like he’s got something to prove. The number switch, to me, is about stepping into that leadership role and taking ownership of this offense. I love it.”
Historically, the No. 1 jersey at Texas has been reserved for playmakers who bring energy, talent, and attitude to the field. Players like Roy Williams and Xavier Worthy wore it proudly, and now it’s Baxter’s turn to carry on that legacy. His blend of size, speed, and vision makes him one of the most dynamic backs in the Big 12—and possibly the country.
The Longhorns are expected to lean heavily on Baxter this season following the departure of Jonathon Brooks to the NFL. With questions surrounding the quarterback battle between Arch Manning and Maalik Murphy, the stability that Baxter brings to the ground game will be crucial. His ability to run between the tackles, bounce to the outside, and catch passes out of the backfield gives Texas a versatile weapon in every phase.
“It’s about being dependable in all areas,” Baxter said. “Whether it’s pass protection, catching the ball, or hitting the right hole—I want to be the guy Coach Sark can trust every play.”
And trust is something he’s earned. Teammates rave about Baxter’s focus during offseason workouts and his vocal presence in meetings and on the practice field. Coaches believe he’s taken a significant leap forward, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
“He’s grown into a complete player,” said head coach Steve Sarkisian. “CJ understands the game at a high level now. He’s not just running the ball—he’s diagnosing defenses, picking up blitzes, coaching up the younger guys. That’s what a
GOOD NEWS: Texas Running Back Reveals New Number for 2025 Season
Excitement is brewing in Austin as the Texas Longhorns prepare for the 2025 season, and fans just got a fresh update that has the burnt orange faithful buzzing. Star running back CJ Baxter Jr. has officially announced he will wear a new jersey number for the upcoming season, switching from his previous No. 4 to No. 1 — a symbolic change that reflects his growing role as the leader of the Texas backfield.
The announcement was made via a short but impactful social media post on Sunday afternoon. Baxter shared a picture of his new locker setup, showcasing the crisp No. 1 jersey hanging prominently above his cleats, captioned: “New season. New number. Same mission.”
Baxter, a sophomore out of Orlando, Florida, was one of the top running backs in the 2023 recruiting class and played a significant role in Texas’ 2024 campaign. After a strong freshman season in which he rushed for over 800 yards and 7 touchdowns despite splitting carries, Baxter is expected to be the feature back in Steve Sarkisian’s offense this fall. The jersey number switch is more than cosmetic—it’s a declaration of intent.
“I wanted to wear No. 1 because I feel like I’ve earned the responsibility that comes with it,” Baxter said after Monday’s spring practice. “It’s a number that means something at Texas. It represents leadership, confidence, and being the guy everyone can count on. I’m ready to be that guy.”
Baxter’s decision was met with overwhelming support from his teammates and coaches. Running backs coach Tashard Choice, himself a former standout at the collegiate level, praised Baxter’s maturity and work ethic throughout spring camp.
“CJ’s not just a great player—he’s become a great teammate,” said Choice. “He’s been working every day like he’s got something to prove. The number switch, to me, is about stepping into that leadership role and taking ownership of this offense. I love it.”
Historically, the No. 1 jersey at Texas has been reserved for playmakers who bring energy, talent, and attitude to the field. Players like Roy Williams and Xavier Worthy wore it proudly, and now it’s Baxter’s turn to carry on that legacy. His blend of size, speed, and vision makes him one of the most dynamic backs in the Big 12—and possibly the country.
The Longhorns are expected to lean heavily on Baxter this season following the departure of Jonathon Brooks to the NFL. With questions surrounding the quarterback battle between Arch Manning and Maalik Murphy, the stability that Baxter brings to the ground game will be crucial. His ability to run between the tackles, bounce to the outside, and catch passes out of the backfield gives Texas a versatile weapon in every phase.
“It’s about being dependable in all areas,” Baxter said. “Whether it’s pass protection, catching the ball, or hitting the right hole—I want to be the guy Coach Sark can trust every play.”
And trust is something he’s earned. Teammates rave about Baxter’s focus during offseason workouts and his vocal presence in meetings and on the practice field. Coaches believe he’s taken a significant leap forward, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
“He’s grown into a complete player,” said head coach Steve Sarkisian. “CJ understands the game at a high level now. He’s not just running the ball—he’s diagnosing defenses, picking up blitzes, coaching up the younger guys. That’s what a
