Texas Longhorns Closing in on New RB Coach
Texas Longhorns Closing in on New RB Coach: What This Means for the Program
The University of Texas Longhorns football program, one of the most storied and successful in college football history, is in the midst of a significant coaching transition. With head coach Steve Sarkisian leading the charge into a new era, the program is continually evolving and making moves to solidify its coaching staff. The latest development centers around the hiring of a new Running Back Coach (RB Coach). This addition to the staff is a pivotal moment for the Longhorns as they look to continue their pursuit of excellence both in the Big 12 and beyond.
With the news that Texas is nearing the final stages of hiring a new RB coach, fans, analysts, and insiders are eagerly awaiting more details on who will take on this critical role. The running back position has long been a cornerstone of Texas football, with a rich tradition of standout players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. From Earl Campbell to Ricky Williams, the Longhorns’ running back history is filled with legendary figures, and the new hire will be tasked with ensuring that this tradition continues.
This article will explore the significance of the new RB coach hire, what the future of the running back position at Texas could look like, and how the new hire fits into the program’s overall goals. We will also examine the potential candidates for the job, what they bring to the table, and how they could shape the Longhorns’ running back room going forward.
The Importance of the Running Back Position at Texas
The University of Texas has always prided itself on being a program that excels in all areas of the game, and the running back position is no exception. Historically, the Longhorns have produced some of the most dominant and electrifying backs in college football. Players like Earl Campbell, Ricky Williams, Cedric Benson, and Jamaal Charles have all etched their names into the history books as Texas running backs who made an enormous impact on the field.
The success of these legendary players has set a high standard for future generations of Longhorns. As the team enters a new era, the pressure is on the new running backs coach to continue this legacy and develop the next generation of Texas stars at the position. The Longhorns are coming off a strong season under head coach Steve Sarkisian, and the running back position is expected to play a major role in their continued success. With a talented offensive line and a quarterback in Quinn Ewers, the running back room is poised to be a key part of the offensive identity for Texas.
In today’s college football landscape, the running back position is still one of the most critical on any team, and for Texas, having a competent and skilled RB coach is essential to maintaining a high level of success. The Longhorns have had their share of struggles at the position in recent years, but with the right coaching, the potential is there for Texas to once again become a powerhouse in the run game.
Sarkisian’s Offensive Vision and the Role of the Running Back Coach
Steve Sarkisian, who took over as Texas’ head coach in 2021, is known for his offensive prowess and innovative approach to the game. Under his guidance, the Longhorns have shown flashes of brilliance offensively, but Sarkisian is still working to establish consistency on that side of the ball. The hiring of a new running backs coach is a critical part of this process, as the run game will be a key component of Texas’ overall offensive strategy moving forward.
Sarkisian is known for his ability to develop quarterbacks and create dynamic passing attacks, but he also understands the importance of having a balanced offense. A successful running game takes pressure off the quarterback, opens up play-action opportunities, and helps control the clock. Texas has the pieces in place to succeed in the run game, but they need a coach who can maximize the potential of the running backs on the roster.
The new RB coach will not only be responsible for developing the running backs’ individual skills but will also need to implement an offensive scheme that complements Sarkisian’s vision. This involves running backs being able to read defenses, execute the offensive line’s blocking schemes, and catch passes out of the backfield when necessary. Sarkisian has shown a willingness to embrace a multifaceted approach to the offense, and the running backs coach will need to work in harmony with the overall offensive philosophy.
The Current State of Texas’ Running Back Room
Before diving into the potential candidates for the RB coach position, it’s important to take a look at the current state of Texas’ running back room. The Longhorns have some intriguing talent at the position, and the new coach will have an exciting group of players to work with.
1. Bijan Robinson: The Star Who Was
Bijan Robinson is undeniably the crown jewel of Texas’ recent running back history. As one of the most highly decorated and talented backs in college football, Robinson was a game-changer for Texas. His ability to break tackles, make defenders miss, and dominate in both the running and passing game made him a top NFL prospect. Robinson was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2023 NFL Draft, leaving a void in the Longhorns’ backfield.
While Robinson’s departure leaves a major hole, it also opens the door for new players to step up and make their mark. The new running backs coach will be tasked with developing the next star at the position, and they will need to identify which players are capable of filling Robinson’s shoes.
2. Roschon Johnson: The Veteran Presence
Another key figure in the Longhorns’ backfield over the past few seasons has been Roschon Johnson, who has been a steady presence as a powerful, physical runner. Johnson, who has shown great versatility, is likely to continue being a key contributor for the Longhorns in 2025. He can handle between-the-tackles duties but is also capable of contributing in the passing game. Johnson’s leadership and experience will be crucial in helping the younger players develop and adapt to the new offensive scheme.
3. Keilan Robinson: Speed and Big-Play Ability
Keilan Robinson, who has been a dynamic and speedy playmaker for the Longhorns, could also play a larger role in 2025. Robinson’s speed and quickness make him a dangerous weapon in open space, and his ability to hit home runs on any given play is a valuable asset to the offense. The new running backs coach will need to refine his skills and find ways to get Robinson the ball in space, allowing him to use his agility and speed to make explosive plays.
4. Fresh Faces and Incoming Recruits
In addition to returning players, the Longhorns will have incoming recruits who will also be vying for playing time. Jaydon Blue, a highly regarded recruit, could add another dimension to the running back room with his skill set. The new coach will be responsible for developing the incoming talent and ensuring they adjust quickly to the demands of college football.
Potential Candidates for the Texas RB Coach Role
As Texas closes in on its new running backs coach, several names have surfaced as potential candidates. These candidates are expected to have a strong background in coaching running backs at the college or NFL level, along with a proven track record of developing talent. While the final decision has yet to be made, here are some possible candidates who could fill the role:
1. Mike Hart (Indiana)
Mike Hart, currently the running backs coach at Indiana University, is an intriguing option for the Longhorns. Hart has a successful history as both a player and a coach, having previously played at Michigan, where he became the school’s all-time leading rusher. Hart has had great success in developing running backs at Indiana, and his experience would provide the Longhorns with someone who understands how to coach the position at the highest level.
Hart’s focus on both technique and mental preparation would be an asset to Texas, as he has demonstrated the ability to get the most out of his running backs in terms of vision, blocking, and ball security. His approach to coaching could mesh well with Sarkisian’s offensive vision.
2. Tashard Choice (Dallas Cowboys)
Another name to keep an eye on is Tashard Choice, the current running backs coach for the Dallas Cowboys. Choice, a former NFL running back, has a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. His transition to the NFL ranks has given him a unique perspective on the running back position, and his experience coaching in the NFL could be beneficial in developing Texas’ talent at the next level.
Choice is known for his ability to develop running backs in both the NFL and college ranks. His experience coaching elite players such as Ezekiel Elliott in Dallas could provide Texas with the type of leadership needed to help the Longhorns’ running back room thrive.
3. Charles Huff (Marshall)
Another potential candidate is Charles Huff, who currently serves as the head coach at Marshall University but has a strong history as a running backs coach. Before taking on the head coaching role, Huff coached at Penn State, where he helped develop talented running backs who went on to have success in the NFL. His recruiting ability, along with his expertise in coaching running backs, would make him an attractive candidate for Texas.
