Texas State Running Back Ismail Mahdi Will Return For Junior Season

After their best season in the program's history as a member of FBS, Texas State will have one of their more important pieces back in 2024.

In his sophomore campaign in 2023, running back Ismail Mahdi rushed for 1,331 yards with ten touchdown rushes. Mahdi confirmed in a video posted to X on Sunday that he will be back with the Bobcats for his junior season.

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Mahdi did not enter the transfer portal this offseason, however, KSAT sports reporter RJ Marquez reported that several schools from the Power Five were interested in Mahdi. Mahdi was named a first-team All-American by CBS Sports and a second-team All-American by four other outlets. He previously transferred to Texas State after playing his freshman season in the FCS at Houston Christian.

The Bobcats had the #2 rushing offense in the Sun Belt this season with 2,439 yards. 

Texas State finished the season 8-5 and won the First Responder Bowl over Rice. Head coach G.J. Kinne completed his first season with the program and has been extended through 2028.