Three Thoughts on landing FB transfer Jerrick Gibson

Purdue kicked off the portal period in a big way on Sunday, netting three commitment from transfers. None were bigger or more impactful, on paper, than that of now former Texas running back Jerrick Gibson.

GoldandBlack.com offers three thoughts on the Boilermakers’ new tailback, what his commitment means and more.

Revamping of backfield commences in big way:

Purdue is tasked with a complete rebuild of the backfield coming out of 2025, as bell cow Devin Mockobee walks off into the sunset, while Malachi Thomas, Jaron Thomas and Jaheim Merriweather all depart from the program as well.

That left just Antonio Harris and incoming freshman Izaiah Wright as the Boilermakers’ tailbacks heading into 2026. Harris surprised many with his workload, with 69 carries for 305 yards and two scores, while adding 17 catches for 137 yards through the air. Wright is a guy Barry Odom declared could come in and help Purdue right away with his physical traits and well-rounded skill set. Still, reinforcements were needed.

Enter Jerrick Gibson.

Gibson is added to the mix as the clear-cut No. 1 back for Josh Henson’s offense going into the spring. The former Texas tailback is headed to West Lafayette, as Purdue beat out Auburn, Wisconsin, and South Florida for his services. Purdue was the first, and will turn out to be the only visit for Gibson during his time in the portal.

What does Gibson bring to the table?

Gibson entered the collegiate ranks as a highly-touted prospect out of IMG Academy (Fla.) and was a contributor for parts of two seasons in Austin. In 19 career games, he had 529 yards and five scores on 4.6 yards per carry.

Going back to his true freshman season, Gibson showed why he had hype coming out of high school, with 374 yards on 78 carries. It was a promising showcase of his skills in a crowded Texas backfield, that also featured Tre Wisner and NFL Draft pick Jaydon Blue.

For comparison, Gibson had 12 carries of 10+ yards in 2024, while Devin Mockobee had 14 on 125 touches this fall. Gibson also had 2.97 yards after contact per carry, which only Mockobee eclipsed this season. He did not have many explosive runs, with just three carries going over 15 yards, but has the quickness to break away, while still possessing toughness to pick up first downs in short yardage scenarios.

Ball security was something Gibson battled in Austin, having a trio of fumbles as a freshman and one last season, so that will need to be improved moving forward. Having more of an opportunity in the passing game also helped draw Gibson to West Lafayette, as he is expected to showcase that ability after having three catches during his time in Austin.

Other names to know:

Purdue now has what is perceived as its top tailback moving forward, but some other transfer running backs that have piqued the Boilermakers’ interest are still on the board.

TCU transfer Nate Palmer was on campus over the weekend, and is headed to South Carolina for another visit. Two other programs are also lurking, but for now its the Boilermakers and Gamecocks as the two frontrunners.

Along with Palmer are two intriguing names: Jaylin Lucas of Florida State and Travis Terrell from Jackson State. Both offer different looks than Gibson, as shifty backs that can also make an impact in the return game. Lucas fits into the “scat back” mold, with receiving chops just as impressive as his work as a runner. Terrell is more of a traditional running back than Lucas, with home run ability, having seven explosive runs (15+ yards) for the Tigers this fall.

Purdue has its guy in Gibson, so if it decides to add to the group, those backs could be complimentary pieces. But with only three scholarship running backs on the roster, some depth and differing skillsets could be of use for offensive coordinator Josh Henson next fall.

Let’s get this train rolling!! #BoilerFootball 🚂#RH9O pic.twitter.com/8db8iT6AEd

— Jerrick4 (@gibson_jerrick) January 5, 2026