Tashard Choice, the Longhorns’ running backs coach, has stirred up quite a buzz in the college football world. After interviewing for the same position with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, many fans wondered if he might be leaving Texas. However, a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, suggests that he may be staying put in Austin for the foreseeable future.
In his heartfelt post, Choice shared a photo of his newborn daughter, Amya, who was adorably making the Hook ’em Horns sign. The caption read, “Amya says Hook Em.” This sweet gesture seems to hint that Choice is committed to his role with the Longhorns, and fans are undoubtedly relieved to see him embrace the Texas spirit in such a personal way.
### Choice’s Impact on Texas Football
Choice has been a vital part of the Texas coaching staff for the past three seasons. Under his guidance, the Longhorns advanced to the College Football Playoff in both 2021 and 2022. Last season, they won their first two games in the playoffs, showcasing their talent and determination before falling to the eventual national champion, Ohio State. This kind of success is not easy to achieve, and it speaks volumes about Choice’s coaching abilities.
However, the 2023 season presented some challenges. The Longhorns ranked 25th in the nation for rushing yards per game under Choice in 2022, but they took a step back to 71st this past season. Injuries played a significant role in this decline. Star running back CJ Baxter suffered an injury before the season even started, and the other running backs faced their own struggles throughout the year. These setbacks undoubtedly tested Choice’s coaching skills, but they also highlighted the importance of depth in college football.
### A Journey Through Coaching
Before joining Texas, Tashard Choice had a notable coaching career. He served as the running backs coach at his alma mater, Georgia Tech, from 2019 to 2021, and prior to that, he held the same position at North Texas in 2018. His experience has been instrumental in shaping the skills of young athletes, and his track record speaks for itself.
Choice’s connection to the Cowboys runs deep. He was drafted by the team in 2008 as a running back out of Georgia Tech and spent his first three years in Dallas before moving on to Washington. His familiarity with the Cowboys organization as a coaching intern in 2016 made the recent interview a logical step. Fans speculated that he could be a perfect fit for the NFL team, but his recent social media activity suggests that he is focused on his current role.
### Looking Ahead: The Future of Texas Running Backs
If Choice does return to Texas, he will have the opportunity to work closely with Baxter, who was the top running back recruit in the 2023 class. Baxter’s impressive performance as a true freshman, where he rushed for 659 yards and five touchdowns, showcased his potential. With a healthy roster, the Longhorns could bounce back and reclaim their spot among the elite rushing teams in college football.
Moreover, Choice has already proven his ability to develop talent at the running back position. He played a pivotal role in the careers of NFL stars like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson. The 40-year-old coach has established himself as a valuable asset in the coaching profession, and Texas fans are eager to see what he can accomplish in the coming seasons.
### A Bright Future for Texas Football
With Tashard Choice at the helm, the Longhorns have a bright future ahead. His commitment to the program, as evidenced by his recent social media post, is a positive sign for Texas fans. The combination of his coaching experience, his ties to the Cowboys, and his ability to develop young talent makes him an integral part of the Longhorns’ success.
The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and the decisions made by coaches like Choice can have lasting impacts on their programs. As the offseason progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how the Longhorns address their running back situation and whether Choice will continue to lead the charge.
In a sport filled with uncertainty, one thing is clear: Tashard Choice is dedicated to his role at Texas, and that commitment could pave the way for a successful future for the Longhorns. With a talented roster and a passionate coaching staff, Texas football is poised to make waves in the upcoming season.
