If Arkansas is serious about jump-starting its rebuild and giving fans a true star to rally around, the Razorbacks should be prepared to go all in for North Texas running back Caleb Hawkins.
For many casual viewers, the New Mexico Bowl served as their first introduction to Hawkins. What they witnessed was a dominant performance: 30 carries for 198 rushing yards and two touchdowns, plus 25 receiving yards and another score through the air. Hawkins completely controlled the game and carried North Texas to a thrilling 49–47 win. To some, it looked like a breakout moment. In reality, it was simply the latest chapter in a stellar season.
Across the full year, Hawkins rushed for 1,236 yards and a nation-leading 23 rushing touchdowns while adding 345 receiving yards out of the backfield. His ability to impact the game as both a runner and receiver makes him one of the most complete backs in college football and add in the fact he did it all as a true freshman.
Caleb Hawkins' Transfer Portal Market
Hawkins has just entered the transfer portal. Hawkins will instantly become one of the most coveted players available once January 2nd hits, especially given that he has at least two more years of college eligibility remaining.
That flexibility is what makes him such a valuable target. Arkansas wouldn’t be chasing a one-year rental, they’d be investing in a centerpiece capable of anchoring the offense through multiple seasons. In an era where roster turnover is constant, landing a proven star with long-term upside is a rare opportunity. They should waste no time going to get Hawkins after putting his name into transfer portal mix.
Oklahoma State Top Competitor
Landing Hawkins won’t be easy. His head coach at North Texas, Eric Morris, is heading to Oklahoma State, and Hawkins is an Oklahoma native. On the surface, that connection makes the Cowboys a natural fit. Familiarity, proximity to home, and continuity could all factor heavily into Hawkins’ decision.
That’s where Arkansas must sell something bigger.
New head coach Ryan Silverfield has built a reputation as a roster builder, someone who develops talent, creates identity, and leans into opportunity. Arkansas can offer Hawkins something few programs can: the chance to be the guy in the SEC. Not a rotation piece. Not a complementary option. The focal point of a rebuild that Razorback fans have been waiting years to see.
Why the Razorbacks Make Sense
The SEC slate is brutal, but it’s also the biggest stage in college football. For a running back with Hawkins’ skill set, proving himself week in and week out against elite defenses would only elevate his profile. Arkansas can pitch him on being the engine of the offense, the player everything runs through, and the face of a program trying to rise again.
Razorback fans have long hoped for a true star they can get excited about, someone whose presence alone changes expectations. Hawkins fits that mold perfectly. He’s explosive, versatile, productive, and still just scratching the surface of his potential.
If Arkansas wants to accelerate its rebuild and give the fanbase a reason to believe, this is the kind of swing that has to be taken. Caleb Hawkins isn’t just a great running back, he’s the type of player who can redefine a program’s trajectory. It's up to Silverfield to do what he was brought in to do and go get that big fish to make a statement early in his tenure. Go get the young North Texas star, give him the keys, and watch him go to work as he makes Arkansas football fun again.