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Texas has quietly become the transfer portal’s most aggressive bidder, and their latest coup may shift the balance in the Big 12. Hollywood Smothers, a proven ball-carrier who had been headed to Alabama, instead committed to the Longhorns this week. The move gives Texas a sudden edge at running back and raises expectations for an offense already retooling itself for 2026.
Why Smothers’ decision matters for Texas and college football
Smothers’ switch isn’t just another portal pick. It underlines how quickly recruiting momentum can swing. Texas flipped a high-impact player away from Nick Saban’s program and added a back who can contribute immediately.
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- Immediate impact: Smothers arrives after a 2025 season that featured consistent production.
- Program momentum: The commitment reinforces Texas’ recent string of successful portal additions.
- Coaching fit: Steve Sarkisian’s run-heavy offenses have thrived with multiple dynamic backs.
A closer look at Smothers’ path and 2025 numbers
From Oklahoma to NC State to the portal
Smothers began his collegiate career at Oklahoma as a three-star prospect. He transferred to NC State ahead of the 2024 season and emerged as a featured runner.
2025 season snapshot
- Rushing yards: 939 on the year.
- Touchdowns: Seven total scores.
- Awards: Named to a 2025 all-conference first team in the SEC.
These numbers helped him rise near the top of portal rankings and made him a coveted target for several Power Five programs.
How Texas rebuilt its backfield in the portal
Texas lost several backs to the portal after last season and responded by adding quality, proven players. Smothers joins a group that now blends youth and experience.
Key additions
- Raleek Brown — recent transfer from Arizona State, an All-Big 12 selection.
- Hollywood Smothers — NC State transfer who reversed an Alabama pledge.
- Christian Clark — rising junior who flashed in late-season play.
Together they create depth and matchup flexibility for Sarkisian’s offense. Brown and Smothers offer different running styles that could be rotated based on game plan.
Portal rankings, commitments and quick timelines
Recruiting services moved Smothers high on their portal lists. Sites that track transfers place him among the top backs available.
- Portal standing: Listed as the No. 2 running back by 247Sports.
- Top rival: Caleb Hawkins, who moved to Oklahoma State from North Texas.
- Commitment timeline: Smothers initially pledged to Alabama on Jan. 5, then announced for Texas less than a week later.
Offensive implications with Manning and new targets
Adding Smothers complements a passing game that should return key pieces. With Arch Manning back under center and recent wideout portal additions, Texas can balance run and pass.
The result: A more complete attack on paper, with multiple skill players who can change game plans on short notice.
Coaches will have to manage carries, rotations, and spring practice reps to determine how the new backfield jells on the field as the Longhorns prepare for the 2026 campaign.
