Steve Sarkisian Updates Injury Report Ahead of Texas vs. Sam Houston: CJ Baxter Out, Key Starters Questionable
The University of Texas football program is riding a wave of anticipation heading into its non-conference clash with Sam Houston, but head coach Steve Sarkisian provided an injury update this week that has Longhorn fans recalibrating expectations. On Thursday, Sarkisian confirmed that sophomore running back CJ Baxter will not play due to a hamstring injury. In addition, offensive lineman Cole Hutson, defensive back Xavier Filsaime, and cornerback Kobe Black are all listed as questionable as of today.
The announcement underscores both the depth challenges and the resilience of a Texas squad that has its eyes set on the College Football Playoff. Though heavily favored against Sam Houston, the absence of Baxter and uncertainty around other key players raises questions about rotations, strategy, and the development of younger talents.
CJ Baxter’s Hamstring Setback
CJ Baxter entered the 2025 season with high expectations after a promising freshman year in which he logged over 650 rushing yards and showcased a mix of power and breakaway speed. Many viewed him as the Longhorns’ lead back, especially in tandem with star runner Jaydon Blue, forming one of the more balanced backfields in the Big 12.
Sarkisian revealed that Baxter suffered the hamstring setback during practice earlier in the week. While the injury is not believed to be long-term, the staff decided to hold him out as a precaution.
“Hamstrings are tricky,” Sarkisian told reporters. “We don’t want to risk making it worse. CJ is a big part of our offense, and we need him for the long haul. He won’t go this week, but we’ll keep monitoring him day by day.”
Without Baxter, the spotlight shifts to Blue, who has already proven capable of carrying a heavier load. Freshman standout Jerrick Gibson could also see expanded opportunities, offering fans a preview of Texas’ next wave of playmakers.
Cole Hutson: Offensive Line Anchor in Question
The offensive line is another area of concern for the Longhorns. Sophomore guard Cole Hutson, a starter since his freshman year, is battling a lingering lower-body issue that has limited him in practice. Hutson’s ability to dominate in the trenches has been a cornerstone of Texas’ offensive scheme, particularly in establishing the run game and protecting quarterback Quinn Ewers.
Sarkisian labeled Hutson as “questionable,” noting that the staff will test his mobility and endurance closer to kickoff. Should Hutson be unable to play, Texas would likely turn to redshirt freshman Neto Umeozulu or veteran Hayden Conner to shore up the interior.
The Longhorns’ offensive line depth has improved in recent recruiting cycles, but losing a proven starter like Hutson would still pose a challenge, especially with SEC play looming in the coming weeks.
Xavier Filsaime: The Freshman Safety With Star Potential
True freshman Xavier Filsaime has already made waves in the defensive backfield, showcasing the speed, instincts, and physicality that made him one of Texas’ top recruits in the 2024 class. His presence in the secondary has been invaluable, particularly with the Longhorns implementing more aggressive coverage schemes this season.
Filsaime’s injury, which Sarkisian described as “nagging,” puts his status in doubt for Saturday. Though not considered serious, the staff may choose to rest him against Sam Houston to ensure he is ready for upcoming SEC showdowns.
If Filsaime is sidelined, expect veterans Jerrin Thompson and Michael Taaffe to absorb more snaps, with freshman Aaron Hampton also potentially rotating into the mix.
Kobe Black: Cornerback Depth Tested
Another true freshman, Kobe Black, has quickly carved out a role at cornerback, using his size and athleticism to disrupt opposing receivers. The former five-star recruit has lived up to his billing early, but he, too, finds himself questionable this week with what Sarkisian referred to as a “minor knock.”
“Kobe’s been terrific for us, especially given how young he is,” Sarkisian said. “We’re being smart with him. It’s not serious, but we’ll see how he feels by Saturday.”
With Black’s status in doubt, sophomores Malik Muhammad and Gavin Holmes could see more action on the perimeter, while veteran Terrance Brooks is expected to anchor the unit.
Impact on the Matchup With Sam Houston
On paper, Texas remains a heavy favorite against Sam Houston, who enter the game as significant underdogs. However, the Longhorns are treating this as a chance to build depth and refine rotations. The injuries could serve as an opportunity for younger players to gain valuable in-game reps.
Fans will be particularly interested in how Texas’ running back room responds without Baxter. Will Blue dominate touches, or will Sarkisian spread carries to Gibson and Savion Red to balance workloads? Similarly, the defensive backfield could look different if Filsaime and Black are unavailable, providing insight into how the staff views its depth options.
Big Picture: Health for the Long Run
While missing players against Sam Houston isn’t ideal, Sarkisian made clear that the program’s focus is on the bigger picture. With SEC play on the horizon and playoff aspirations alive, Texas is prioritizing health over short-term gains.
“It’s about being ready for the grind of the season,” Sarkisian emphasized. “We’re confident in our depth, and these guys will get back soon. The key is to not rush them and risk setbacks.”
For fans, the news of Baxter’s absence and the uncertainty surrounding Hutson, Filsaime, and Black may sting, but the overarching theme is patience. The Longhorns have the talent to handle Sam Houston, and if the young contributors step up, Texas may even come out stronger in the long run.
Conclusion: Managing Expectations
The injury update from Steve Sarkisian is a reminder of the unpredictability of college football. Losing CJ Baxter, even temporarily, will test Texas’ running back depth. Question marks around Hutson, Filsaime, and Black may shake up the lineup, but they also open the door for the next wave of Longhorn stars to make their mark.
As Texas prepares for Sam Houston, the spotlight will shine not just on the starters, but on the reserves who may be called upon to keep the program’s momentum rolling. For a team with championship aspirations, adaptability is as important as talent — and Sarkisian’s Longhorns are about to put both to the test.
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