Austin, Texas, December 9, 2025
The Texas Longhorns football team faces significant changes as running back C.J. Baxter and quarterback Trey Owens enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, along with defensive lineman Melvin Hills. Baxter, who led the team in rushing yards in 2023, battled injuries in recent seasons. Owens aims to secure a starting role, while Hills is seeking the best decision for his future. These departures raise concerns about the Longhorns’ performance ahead of the upcoming Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Michigan.
Austin, Texas – Key Offensive Players Depart Texas Longhorns for Transfer Portal
Austin, Texas – The Texas Longhorns football team is navigating significant changes as two crucial offensive players, running back C.J. Baxter and quarterback Trey Owens, have announced their plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. Additionally, redshirt freshman defensive lineman Melvin Hills has also opted to transfer.
C.J. Baxter’s Departure
C.J. Baxter, a redshirt sophomore running back, has played a vital role in the Longhorns’ backfield. After showcasing his skills in a standout freshman season in 2023, where he topped the team in rushing yards, Baxter faced significant challenges in the subsequent years, including a severe knee injury that sidelined him for the 2024 season and a hamstring issue that limited his participation in 2025. Seeking a fresh opportunity, Baxter has decided to enter the transfer portal.
Trey Owens’ Transfer Announcement
Trey Owens, a backup quarterback who has three years of eligibility remaining, has also made the decision to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Expressing gratitude for his experiences at Texas, Owens aims to find a program where he can secure a starting position and enhance his development as a quarterback.
Melvin Hills’ Decision to Transfer
Melvin Hills, a redshirt freshman defensive lineman, joins his teammates in the transfer portal. Having redshirted his first year and participated in four games this past season, Hills is looking for the best decision for his future, while remaining thankful for his time with the Longhorns.
Implications for the Longhorns
The departures of Baxter, Owens, and Hills underscore the challenges facing the Longhorns following their exclusion from the College Football Playoff. With the official transfer portal window set to open on January 2, 2026, players have until January 16 to finalize their transfer decisions. As the team prepares for the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Michigan on New Year’s Eve, the absence of these key players could have implications on their performance.
Background Context
The NCAA Transfer Portal has significantly transformed the landscape of college football, allowing players the option to explore new teams and playing opportunities. The recent announcements from Longhorns players reflect both the dynamic nature of college sports and the strategic decisions athletes must make regarding their collegiate careers.
FAQ
Who are the Texas Longhorns players entering the transfer portal?
Running back C.J. Baxter, quarterback Trey Owens, and defensive lineman Melvin Hills have announced their intentions to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal.
What are the reasons for these players’ decisions to transfer?
C.J. Baxter faced a season-ending knee injury in 2024 and a hamstring injury in 2025, limiting his playtime. Trey Owens expressed a desire for a starting role, while Melvin Hills is seeking the best decision for his future.
When does the NCAA Transfer Portal window open?
The official transfer portal window opens on January 2, 2026, allowing players until January 16 to finalize their decisions.
How might these transfers affect the Texas Longhorns’ upcoming games?
The departures of key players may impact the team’s performance in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Michigan on New Year’s Eve.
What is the NCAA Transfer Portal?
The NCAA Transfer Portal is a system that allows college athletes to declare their intent to transfer to another program, providing them with the opportunity to explore new teams and playing time.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Players Entering Transfer Portal | C.J. Baxter, Trey Owens, and Melvin Hills have announced their intentions to transfer. |
| Reasons for Transfer | Baxter faced injuries, Owens seeks a starting role, and Hills aims to make the best decision for his future. |
| Transfer Portal Window | Opens on January 2, 2026, with a deadline of January 16 for players to finalize decisions. |
| Impact on Team | Potential effects on performance in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Michigan on New Year’s Eve. |
| NCAA Transfer Portal | A system allowing college athletes to declare intent to transfer, exploring new teams and playing time. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Longhorns Football Players Enter Transfer Portal
Texas Longhorns Football Faces Changes with Player Transfers
Texas Longhorns Football Faces Major Roster Changes
Texas Longhorns Players C.J. Baxter and Trey Owens to Transfer
Big Ten Conference Matches Record with Nine Teams in AP Top 25
Texas Longhorns Set for Cheez-It Citrus Bowl Showdown
Texas Longhorns Set to Face Michigan in Citrus Bowl
Longhorns Prepare for Cheez-It Citrus Bowl Against Michigan
Texas Longhorns Set to Face Michigan Wolverines in Citrus Bowl
Texas Longhorns Set for Citrus Bowl Showdown with Michigan
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