North Texas running back Caleb Hawkins, a standout true freshman, announced on December 3, 2023, his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal. Hawkins, who has led the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) with 29 touchdowns this season, is poised to be one of the most sought-after running backs available when the transfer portal officially opens on January 2, 2024.
During his debut season with the Mean Green, Hawkins amassed 1,804 yards from scrimmage, ranking third in the FBS. His remarkable performance earned him All-America honors and recognition as the American Conference Rookie of the Year. Hawkins is not alone in his decision; he joins several teammates in exploring transfer options following the hiring of coach Eric Morris by Oklahoma State on November 25, 2023.
Roster Changes Following Coaching Transition
The announcement comes in the wake of significant staffing changes at North Texas. Several players, including wide receiver Wyatt Young, who ranked third in the FBS with 1,264 receiving yards, have also indicated plans to enter the transfer portal. Other players expressing intentions to transfer include running backs Ashton Gray and Makenzie McGill II, defensive linemen Ethan Day and Joshua Pierce, linebacker Ethan Wesloski, and safety Quinton Hammonds.
The Mean Green recently concluded their season with a thrilling 49-47 victory over San Diego State in the Isleta New Mexico Bowl, marking the program’s first-ever 12-win season. As North Texas transitions from Morris to new head coach Neal Brown, expectations for roster changes are high, particularly as Morris takes defensive coordinator Skyler Cassity and several assistant coaches, along with general manager Raj Murti, to his new role at Oklahoma State.
Record-Breaking Performances and Future Prospects
Hawkins, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 200 pounds, emerged as one of the most exciting freshman players in college football this season. He surpassed 200 total yards in six games, including an impressive 233-yard performance against San Diego State, where he was named the offensive MVP of the bowl game.
Another key player for North Texas, star quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who led the FBS with 4,379 passing yards, is expected to make his transfer decision after the bowl game. If he chooses to enter the portal, he will join Hawkins as one of the top quarterbacks available during the transfer window from January 2 to January 16, 2024.
In his third season as head coach, Morris guided North Texas to the top scoring offense in the FBS, averaging 45.1 points per game and leading the team to its first appearance in the American Conference title game. As the program embarks on a new chapter, the impact of these departures on the team’s future remains to be seen.
