Texas Longhorns Secure Running Back Velton Gardner Following Injuries to CJ Baxter and Christian Clark
The Texas Longhorns have found a much-needed solution at running back after losing CJ Baxter and Christian Clark to season-ending injuries. In a key addition to their roster, former Kansas and SMU running back Velton Gardner has committed to join the Longhorns. Gardner made the announcement on his Instagram, signaling a significant boost to Texas’ backfield depth. He will join forces with Jaydon Blue, Jerrick Gibson, and Tre Wisner, aiming to fill the void left by the injured players.
Originally a three-star recruit from Skyline High School in Dallas, Gardner was ranked as the No. 817 player nationally and No. 106 in Texas according to the 247 Composite Rankings. Gardner initially committed to Kansas, where he emerged as one of their top prospects. Throughout his five-year collegiate career, Gardner has appeared in 37 games, amassing 1,024 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 229 carries, along with 22 receptions for 73 yards.
Gardner’s college journey began with the Kansas Jayhawks, where he played 19 games, rushing for 529 yards and four touchdowns. He later transferred to SMU, contributing significantly over 18 games with 505 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per carry. Gardner also helped lead the Mustangs to an 18-9 record, an AAC title, and appearances in the New Mexico Bowl and Fenway Bowl during his tenure.
This move not only strengthens the Longhorns’ running game but also brings a seasoned and versatile player into the mix, poised to make an immediate impact on the field.
