AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Longhorns running back room is getting some much needed depth.
Running back Velton Gardner announced on his Instagram account that he was committing to Texas in the transfer portal. The sixth-year back will join presumptive starter Jaydon Blue in the backfield, along with Tre Wisner and Jerrick Gibson, who will likely take on more rotational roles.
Gardner comes to Texas after spending the last two seasons at SMU. Prior to the stint at SMU, he spent three seasons at Kansas, and was briefly committed to Grambling State but never appeared in a game for them.
Over five seasons between SMU and Kansas, Gardner rushed for 1,024 yards and six touchdowns.
Adding Gardner was almost a necessity for the Longhorns, after the team lost starter CJ Baxter to a right knee injury on Aug. 5, and freshman Christian Clark to a torn Achilles tendon a week later, crippling the team's running back depth.
It is unclear where he will slot into the depth chart right away, but his experience could give him a boost in understanding coach Steve Sarkisian's offense.