1,800-yard college football RB enters transfer portal after Freshman All-American season

A breakout freshman running back and All-American selection has entered the transfer portal after a record-breaking debut campaign.

After delivering more than 1,800 yards and 29 touchdowns this season, a true freshman running back will enter the college football transfer portal. | Danny Wild-Imagn Images

The modern landscape of college football ensures that roster retention is never guaranteed even for players who instantly become the face of a program. Breakout stars who dominate the competition in their debut campaigns are highly coveted assets in the open market and often draw significant attention from power programs.

One of the nation's most productive offensive weapons has decided to explore his options after a statistically dominant true freshman year. This standout performer led the country in total touchdowns and shattered school records while earning prestigious national honors generally reserved for upperclassmen.

His departure marks a significant blow to a Group of Five roster that just secured a historic eleven-win season and a conference championship appearance. The decision to enter the transfer portal comes on the heels of accolades from outlets like Sporting News and the Walter Camp Football Foundation.

North Texas running back Caleb Hawkins intends to transfer

On3 reported on Saturday that North Texas Mean Green running back Caleb Hawkins plans to enter the transfer portal. Hayes Fawcett shared the news on social media regarding the Shawnee, Oklahoma, native.

Hawkins leaves Denton after a spectacular year where he racked up 1,804 total yards and found the end zone 29 times. Those figures helped him secure the American Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year award and First Team All-Conference recognition.

North Texas Mean Green running back Caleb Hawkins (24) concluded his 2025 season with 223 total yards and three total touchdowns on 33 touches against San Diego State in the New Mexico Bowl | Danny Wild-Imagn Images

His production placed him in elite company within the university's history books. Hawkins became just the third player in school history to earn Walter Camp All-America honors, joining NFL Hall of Famer Joe Greene and receiver Jaelon Darden.

He was also the first true freshman running back nationally to receive that specific recognition since Wisconsin star Jonathan Taylor did so in 2017.

BREAKING: North Texas true freshman star RB Caleb Hawkins is entering the @TransferPortal, he tells @On3Sports

This season he totaled 1,804 yards and 29 TDs

Was named the AAC Rookie of the Year, 1st Team All-Conference, & an On3 Freshman All-American https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/xYtS5BtIxU

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 28, 2025

The 6-foot-2 ball carrier originally committed to the program over offers from lower-level schools like Emporia State and Central Oklahoma.

He quickly proved he belonged at the Football Bowl Subdivision level by securing a starting role and delivering massive performances including a school-record five rushing touchdowns during a victory against UAB.