What's Happening?
Texas Longhorns football team has announced the departure of running back Jerrick Gibson and kicker Will Stone. The decision comes shortly after the team's 23-6 victory over Oklahoma. Both players have
opted to leave the team to preserve their remaining eligibility and plan to enter the transfer portal when it opens on January 2. Gibson, a former four-star recruit, struggled to find consistent playing time in Austin, finishing the 2025 season with 152 yards and one touchdown on 37 carries. His opportunities were limited due to the return of Tre Wisner and the emergence of James Simon and Christian Clark, along with ball security issues. Stone, ranked as the nation’s No. 3 kicker in the 2022 recruiting class, lost his starting position and primarily served as the kickoff specialist. He briefly took over place-kicking duties during last year’s College Football Playoff semifinal against Ohio State. This season, Stone recorded eight touchbacks on 20 kickoffs despite missing two games due to an undisclosed injury.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Gibson and Stone from the Texas Longhorns football program highlights the competitive nature of college sports, where athletes often seek new opportunities to maximize their playing time and career prospects. For Texas, this means adjusting their roster and strategy, particularly in the kicking department where Mason Shipley will now take on a more prominent role. The transfer portal has become a crucial tool for athletes looking to reposition themselves in the college sports landscape, offering them a chance to find programs that better fit their skills and aspirations. This movement can impact team dynamics and performance, as well as recruitment strategies for college football programs across the nation.
What's Next?
With Gibson and Stone entering the transfer portal, Texas Longhorns will need to focus on filling the gaps left by their departure. The team will likely look to strengthen their roster through recruitment and development of existing players. For Gibson and Stone, entering the transfer portal opens up opportunities to join other programs where they might have a better chance to play and develop their skills. The transfer portal window opening on January 2 will be a critical period for both players as they explore new teams and opportunities.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision by Gibson and Stone to leave the Texas Longhorns underscores the broader trend in college sports where athletes are increasingly using the transfer portal to navigate their careers. This trend raises questions about the stability and loyalty within college teams, as well as the pressures athletes face to perform and secure their future in professional sports. It also highlights the evolving nature of college athletics, where player movement is becoming more common and accepted.
