CJ Baxter, the rising star in the Texas Longhorns’ backfield, recently shared a heartfelt and introspective piece in *The Players’ Tribune*, reflecting on his journey to the University of Texas and his experiences as a key player in one of college football’s most storied programs. The article provides an inside look at Baxter’s life, detailing his personal growth, the challenges he faced on and off the field, and his aspirations for the future.
Baxter begins his narrative by taking readers back to his roots, painting a vivid picture of his childhood in Orlando, Florida. Growing up in a football-loving family, Baxter quickly developed a passion for the sport. He credits his parents and high school coaches for instilling in him the values of hard work, perseverance, and humility.
“Football was more than a game to me—it was a way to prove myself,” Baxter writes. “I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest at first, but I had heart, and that’s what set me apart.”
His rise to prominence in high school was anything but easy. Baxter recounts the countless hours spent refining his craft, balancing academics with football, and learning from setbacks. He emphasizes the importance of those early challenges in shaping his mindset and preparing him for the next level.
Baxter’s recruitment was a whirlwind, with offers from nearly every major college football program in the country. Ultimately, the decision to commit to Texas was driven by a combination of factors: the coaching staff, the team’s vision, and the Longhorns’ rich history of producing elite running backs.
“I saw something special at Texas,” Baxter explains. “Coach [Steve] Sarkisian believed in me from the start, and the atmosphere in Austin felt like home. It wasn’t just about football; it was about being part of something bigger.”
In his article, Baxter also opens up about the pressure that came with being a highly-touted recruit. The weight of expectations and comparisons to Texas greats like Ricky Williams and Bijan Robinson pushed him to focus on what he could control: his effort, attitude, and commitment to the team.
Adjusting to the college game was a steep learning curve for Baxter, and he doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges. From the speed and physicality of the game to managing academics and the scrutiny of being in the public eye, Baxter admits that his freshman year tested him in ways he hadn’t anticipated.
“I had to grow up quickly,” he says. “There were days when I doubted myself, but my teammates and coaches always had my back. They reminded me why I was here and what I was capable of.”
Baxter’s dedication paid off, as he emerged as a key contributor for the Longhorns. His combination of vision, explosiveness, and versatility has made him a dynamic weapon in Sarkisian’s offense, and his performances have drawn praise from fans and analysts alike.
As he reflects on his journey, Baxter shares the lessons he’s learned about resilience, leadership, and the importance of staying grounded. He credits his teammates for fostering a culture of accountability and brotherhood, which has been instrumental in the Longhorns’ success this season.
Looking ahead, Baxter expresses his desire to leave a lasting legacy at Texas. He aims to not only help the team achieve its goals but also inspire the next generation of athletes through his story.
“My journey is far from over,” Baxter writes. “I want to be remembered as someone who gave everything for the team and used my platform to make a positive impact.”
Baxter’s article is more than just a personal reflection—it’s a testament to the transformative power of sports. His journey from a young boy with big dreams to a standout player for the Longhorns serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
For Texas fans, Baxter’s words reinforce why he is such a valuable part of the program. His humility, work ethic, and passion for the game embody the values that make college football special.
As Baxter continues to shine on the field, his story reminds us that greatness isn’t just about talent—it’s about the character, determination, and heart that drive success. For CJ Baxter and the Texas Longhorns, the best is yet to come.