BREAKING: North Texas running back Caleb Hawkins has officially announced plans to enter the transfer portal just hours after the Mean Green’s thrilling victory over San Diego State in the New Mexico Bowl. This marks a significant shift for the 2025 North Texas Mean Green football roster, coming on the heels of their first bowl win since 2013.
The announcement was first reported by On3, following Hawkins’ standout performance in the bowl game, where he rushed for an impressive 198 yards and scored two touchdowns on 30 carries. Fellow running back Ashton Gray also made headlines, contributing 152 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries, showcasing the duo’s explosive potential.
Hawkins, a true freshman, was recognized as the American Conference Rookie of the Year, earning a spot on the first team all-conference. He finished the season with a staggering 1,432 rushing yards, 370 receiving yards, and a total of 29 touchdowns across 230 carries and 32 receptions. His contributions were pivotal to UNT’s success throughout the season.
The transfer portal news comes as a shock to fans, especially with UNT head coach Eric Morris recently departing for Oklahoma State. Given the current climate of college athletics, Hawkins and Gray are unlikely to be the only players seeking new opportunities. Speculation is also mounting around the potential transfer decision of star quarterback Drew Mestemaker, which could further reshape the Mean Green’s future.
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Hawkins’ decision will resonate across the sport. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation as more updates emerge.
Stay tuned for the latest developments and analysis on this unfolding story.
