Despite their best effort, Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns didn’t pass the eye test for the Selection Committee to send them to the College Football Playoff. Now, the Horns have one last game left before calling it a wrap and moving on to the 2026 NCAA season.

Though Manning could still declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, all signs indicate the redshirt sophomore quarterback will give it another go with Texas next year. However, the Longhorns have learned another key offensive player is stepping away from the program.

As reported by insider Pete Thamel, running back CJ Baxter is entering the NCAA’s transfer portal, putting an end to his three-year stay with the Longhorns. The sophomore tail-back took on a secondary role on Steve Sarkisian’s offense in the past season, leading him to sea

See Full Page