Texas' Sarkisian may have tipped his hand on 2026 running back starter

After one of the worst run games in program history in 2025, the Texas Longhorns running back room has been completely revamped from last year with two transfers, two freshman and a WR convert. But who starts?

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian added two big name backs through the transfer portal. The Longhorns added Hollywood Smothers from NC State and Raleek Brown from Arizona State.

UT also added one of the highest rated RB recruits in the nation in Derrek Cooper. Sark also signed what could be a diamond in the rough in speedy Georgetown RB Jett Walker.

James Simon returns and Michael Terry III will attempt to switch to running back from wide receiver. Terry looks like he has gained 10 pounds of muscle to help him survive the pounding he will get at running back as opposed to wide out. Ryan Niblett will also be given a bigger role at the position next year.

On paper, the options are a huge upgrade from the 2025 season. But who starts? A lot of speculation before spring practice was Hollywood Smothers was the logical choice, with Raleek Brown as a third down back. But that's not how the rotation has played out this spring.

For most of the spring, Brown has been the early down starter in practice, while Smothers and Derrek Cooper have rotated in behind him. Brown has also been handling kickoffs in practice.

For now, Sark seems to like the home run ability Brown gives him. The Mater Dei High School gradate reminds many of Jaydon Blue, but without the fumbling or motivation issues. Brown possesses remarkable straight line speed, elite pass catching ability and top end shiftiness in open space. Brown thrives more in between the tackles.

Smothers separates himself from his running mates with his yards after contact. Brown runs tough, but Smothers averaged 4.3 yards after contact per carry while Brown went for just 3.0 in 2025. Smothers could be the primary short yardage back when Texas needs a first down or TD.