Tre Wisner: Texas Longhorns RB Decision & Future Plans

Longhorns Face New Era at Running Back After Tre Wisner’s Transfer

A important shift is underway for the Texas Longhorns’ rushing attack as they navigate a period of roster turnover and prepare for the 2026 season. Following a disappointing 9-3 season and the departure of key players, including star running back Tre Wisner, the program is bracing for a potential rebuild while concurrently seeking solutions in the NCAA Transfer Portal.

Texas entered the 2025 season with national championship aspirations and a Heisman-contending quarterback, but now finds itself on the periphery, facing the challenge of replacing vital contributors. The recent announcement of Wisner’s decision to enter the transfer portal follows the earlier departure of CJ Baxter, leaving a considerable void in the Longhorns’ backfield.

Did you know? – The Longhorns’ 9-3 record in 2025 was partially hampered by offensive struggles. Injuries to running backs and an inexperienced offensive line were largely attributed to these issues. Strengthening both units is seen as crucial to supporting quarterback Arch Manning.

Tre Wisner’s Impact on the Forty Acres

Junior running back Tre Wisner has been a consistent presence in the Texas offense since his sophomore year, accumulating 1,734 career rushing yards and nine touchdowns over three seasons. His most productive year came in 2024, when he rushed for 1,064 yards and five touchdowns. despite his contributions, Wisner often found himself sharing carries, first with Jaydon Blue in 2024 and then with baxter in 2025, while also battling injuries.

Many anticipated Wisner would assume the primary running back role with Baxter’s departure, but he ultimately opted to seek opportunities elsewhere.However, his impact was most keenly felt in high-stakes rivalry games. In a 23-6 victory over the No. 6 Oklahoma Sooners, the North Texas native delivered a standout performance, and he followed that up with a strong showing in a 27-17 win against the then-No. 3 Texas A&M Aggies.Against the Aggies, Wisner recorded 155 rushing yards on 19 carries, averaging an extraordinary 8.2 yards per carry, and added 94 yards on 22 carries against the Sooners.

“He was an absolute warrior,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian remarked after the Lone Star Showdown, highlighting Wisner’s ability to control the game through effective ball possession. He continued to demonstrate this ability in 2024, posting 118 yards on 13 carries against Oklahoma and 186 yards on 33 carries against the Aggies.

Pro tip – When evaluating running back prospects, coaches prioritize not only yardage but also pass-blocking ability and ball security. These skills are vital for a complete back in a complex offense.

Addressing the Running Back Void

With Wisner’s departure, the Longhorns are now actively seeking to fill the hole at the running back position. Sarkisian has indicated a strategic approach, focusing on bolstering multiple areas of the team through the transfer portal.

“As I touched on, I think the offensive line is something that we’re going to address in the portal,” Sarkisian stated. “An interior defensive lineman is something we’ll address in the portal,perhaps a linebacker,potentially something in the secondary,potentially a

Why did Tre Wisner transfer? Wisner transferred seeking more opportunities,notably after the departure of CJ Baxter didn’t automatically translate into a clear path to a primary role. He wanted a situation where he could showcase his abilities more consistently.

Who is impacted by Wisner’s departure? The Longhorns’ entire offensive strategy is impacted.The team now needs to find a replacement for a reliable ball carrier, and the offensive line must step up to provide better protection and running lanes. Quarterback Arch Manning will also feel the pressure to carry more of the offensive load.

What is the Longhorns’ plan to address the situation? Coach Sarkisian is