The Texas Longhorns have strengthened their offensive lineup for the upcoming 2026 season by securing a commitment from running back Daylan “Hollywood” Smothers, who recently transferred from Alabama. According to a report by On3’s Hayes Fawcett, Smothers, a standout performer and first-team All-ACC selection last season, flipped his commitment to Texas just hours after the team welcomed Cam Coleman, the top wide receiver in the transfer portal.
Smothers, who rushed for a notable 939 yards and scored seven total touchdowns in the 2025 season while playing for North Carolina State, adds significant depth to Texas’s backfield. His performance included six games with over 100 total yards, highlighted by an impressive 140-yard outing with two touchdowns against Virginia, a team that later reached the ACC title game.
Career Journey and Impact
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches, Smothers is set to play for his third school in four years. He began his collegiate career at Oklahoma before transferring to NC State, where he played for the last two seasons. With two years of eligibility remaining, Smothers’ move to Texas comes in the wake of notable departures from the Longhorns roster, including starting running back Quintrevion Wisner.
In ESPN’s ranking of players available in the transfer portal this offseason, Smothers was recognized as the top-ranked running back and the 18th overall player, underscoring his potential impact on the Texas offense. His commitment signifies a critical addition for the Longhorns as they look to rebuild following recent player exits.
Texas continues to make strategic moves in the transfer portal, and Smothers’ arrival is expected to enhance their offensive capabilities. The Longhorns’ coaching staff is focused on creating a formidable lineup as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. As they integrate new talent, Texas aims to reclaim its position as a powerhouse in college football.
With each new commitment, the Longhorns demonstrate their determination to build a competitive team, setting the stage for an exciting 2026 season.
