Inside the Program: Big CJ Baxter News, Important Transfers Stepping Up & Pass Catchers Standing Out

Inside Texas breaks down CJ Baxter’s progress, highlights key transfer additions making an early impact, and spotlights pass catchers flashing in offseason work.

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The latest episode of “Inside the Program,” presented by Academy Sports and Outdoors, provides a detailed update on the Texas Longhorns football team’s progress during summer workouts, focusing on player development, transfer portal additions, and recruitment dynamics. The hosts, Joe Cook and Eric Nahlin, share encouraging news about returning players and new additions as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

One of the season’s most optimistic updates involves third-year running back CJ Baxter, who is recovering well from a significant knee injury that cost him his sophomore year. He has returned to full participation in summer workouts and seven-on-seven drills, signaling potential readiness for the season opener against Ohio State. Baxter’s physical maturity and increased upper-body strength could translate into a more assertive running style, particularly in gap schemes and red-zone situations.

Defensive tackle Travis Shaw, a transfer, is showing promising signs during workouts, evidenced by his good motor and stamina in agility drills, which bodes well for his role in the defensive tackle rotation. Another notable transfer is quarterback Matthew Caldwell from Troy, who is adjusting well to the program, showing maturity on and off the field, especially in protecting the football during seven-on-seven drills. Early observations suggest he could be a solid backup quarterback who effectively manages the team’s RPO (run-pass option) offense.

Versatility is a theme running throughout the discussion, particularly with player Ryan Niblett. Switched back to offense, he is described as the fastest player on the team, a dual-threat weapon able to play both running back and wide receiver roles. His speed and ability to be motioned across the formation make him a unique asset, potentially filling a role similar to or beyond previous versatile players like Keilan Robinson and Silas Bolden.

Wide receiver DeAndre Moore is highlighted as an emerging talent expected to take a significant leap this season. Known for his speed and vertical threat, Moore has impressed insiders since arriving on campus. His recruitment was competitive, and coaches clearly value his athleticism and potential to replicate or surpass the impact of previous standout receivers.

Tight end Jack Endries, a transfer from Cal, is filling a critical leadership and experience gap in a young tight end room. Despite the youth of other tight ends, Endries is integrating well and likely to play a key role in a Sark-led offense that frequently utilizes multiple tight end formations, especially 12 personnel.

Recruitment remains strong for Texas, with highly rated prospects continuing to show interest. The Longhorns benefit from a thorough and aggressive recruitment strategy, highlighted by their ability to flip recruits from other programs and sustain a high-ranking recruiting board. Some standout recruits mentioned include Corey Wells, Kohen Brown, and Lamar Brown. The program also faces challenges on certain fronts, such as with linebacker Brayden Rouse, where competition from other programs like Tennessee and Michigan is intense. Despite the competitive landscape and evolving NIL climate, sources remain confident Texas has the capability and resources—the “gas pedal”—to secure another top-three recruiting class.

The show wraps up by reminding fans to stay connected for ongoing recruiting updates and official visit coverage as the nation approaches critical summer deadlines.

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