The Texas Longhorns were dealt a significant blow this week as news broke that Velton Gardner, a talented running back who transferred to Texas from Kansas, is officially out for the remainder of the season. Gardner, who had been working his way into Texas’ backfield rotation, was expected to add depth and versatility to the Longhorns’ offense. However, a lingering injury that hasn’t healed as anticipated has sidelined him for the rest of the 2023-24 season, leaving Texas to reshuffle its options at the running back position. This development adds complexity to an already challenging season and forces head coach Steve Sarkisian to make key adjustments on offense.
Velton Gardner joined the Texas program with high hopes of making an impact. A former Kansas Jayhawk, Gardner transferred to Texas in 2022 after two seasons in Lawrence, where he showed flashes of playmaking potential. He rushed for over 500 yards across 17 games at Kansas, demonstrating quickness and an ability to find holes in the defense. Gardner’s transfer to Texas came as a surprise, but it was welcomed by Longhorn fans who recognized his ability to compete in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. With the move, Gardner hoped to revive his college football career in Austin and prove himself on a larger stage.
Coming into the 2023 season, Gardner’s addition provided a boost to the Longhorns’ backfield, which was adjusting after losing star running back Bijan Robinson to the NFL. Sarkisian viewed Gardner as a player with the potential to contribute both as a runner and a pass-catcher out of the backfield. His speed and agility seemed to fit well with Sarkisian’s offensive philosophy, which relies on versatility and quick decision-making.
Gardner’s season was off to a promising start, as he had shown in training camp and early-season games that he could provide a solid complement to Texas’ other backs, especially Jonathan Brooks, who emerged as the primary rusher this season. However, Gardner’s availability has been limited due to injuries, with a nagging leg issue that progressively worsened. After trying to push through the injury in hopes of making it back to full strength, Gardner and the Texas medical staff made the decision to shut him down for the season, prioritizing his long-term health and recovery.
The loss of Gardner is significant for the Longhorns, especially as they approach the critical part of their schedule. Gardner’s absence leaves the Longhorns with fewer options in the backfield and puts more pressure on Brooks and other backups, such as freshman CJ Baxter. Brooks has carried a heavy load this season, and while he has performed admirably, the toll of an extended workload may impact his effectiveness. Sarkisian will likely rely on Baxter more heavily as well, hoping the young back can handle the increased responsibility and maintain the consistency needed for Texas’ offense to remain effective.
With Gardner unavailable, Steve Sarkisian and his staff will need to make adjustments in how they utilize their remaining backs. Sarkisian’s playbook is built on diversity and unpredictability, and Gardner’s skill set allowed the offense to keep opposing defenses on their toes. The loss of Gardner reduces the versatility in Texas’ running game, forcing Sarkisian to rely on fewer options to execute his game plan. The offensive line, which has been a cornerstone of Texas’ success this season, will also feel the impact, as they adjust to accommodate the change in backfield personnel.
To counter Gardner’s absence, Texas may incorporate more short passing plays and screen passes as a substitute for the runs Gardner would have handled. Utilizing Brooks and Baxter in the passing game could help diversify the offense and prevent it from becoming too one-dimensional. Additionally, Sarkisian may draw up more plays designed to get the ball into the hands of his receivers and tight ends in short-yardage situations, ensuring that Texas can still generate offensive momentum even without Gardner’s contributions.
Gardner’s injury puts Texas in a precarious situation regarding depth. Injuries in football are unpredictable, and should Brooks or Baxter face any setbacks, the Longhorns’ options would be further depleted. Sarkisian may need to consider elevating younger, less-experienced players from the practice squad or giving snaps to walk-on players. In the event of any further depth issues, Texas could also adapt by relying on a dual-quarterback scheme or by using wildcat formations to keep opponents guessing.
For Velton Gardner, the season-ending injury is undoubtedly a setback, but it also provides an opportunity for long-term recovery and improvement. With another year of eligibility, Gardner has the chance to return next season with renewed health and the potential to compete for a larger role in the Texas backfield. His talent and determination are evident, and if he can successfully rehab his injury, Gardner could emerge as a key contributor in 2024.
For Texas, Gardner’s loss adds a layer of complexity to a season filled with high expectations and competitive challenges. Sarkisian and his staff will need to navigate the remainder of the schedule carefully, ensuring that their primary backs stay healthy and productive. The Longhorns still have a promising outlook, with a strong offensive line and talented skill players, but the absence of Gardner removes a valuable piece of their game plan.
As Texas marches forward, the focus remains on maximizing the current roster and ensuring that players like Brooks and Baxter can carry the team through the remainder of the season. While Gardner’s absence is a setback, the Longhorns will look to finish strong, rallying around the remaining backs and the depth of talent on their roster.