GOOD NEWS: DONE Texas Adds New Transfer Running Back After experiencing shocking Injury
AUSTIN – The Texas Longhorns have been searching for solutions at running back following season-ending injuries to CJ Baxter and Christian Clark.
It appears they may have found one.
Velton Gardner, a former Kansas and SMU running back, has announced on Instagram that he is committing to the Longhorns. He will join a backfield that includes Jaydon Blue, Jerrick Gibson, and Tre Wisner.
Gardner, a three-star recruit from Skyline High School in Dallas, TX, was ranked No. 817 nationally and No. 106 in Texas according to the 247 Composite Ranking.
He began his college career at Kansas, where he was one of their top-rated prospects.
A veteran player, Gardner has appeared in 37 games over five years, rushing 229 times for 1,024 yards and six touchdowns, and catching 22 passes for 73 yards.
Gardner played 19 games with the Jayhawks from 2019-2021, rushing for 529 yards and four touchdowns on 127 carries, averaging 4.1 yards per carry.
He then transferred to SMU, where he played in 18 games, rushing for 505 yards and two touchdowns on 102 carries, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. Gardner also participated in two bowl games during his time with the Mustangs.
During Gardner’s tenure, SMU went 18-9, won the AAC title, and played in the New Mexico Bowl and the Fenway Bowl.