URGENT UPDATE: Just moments after the North Texas Mean Green clinched their first bowl victory since 2013, star running back Caleb Hawkins has announced plans to enter the transfer portal, according to On3. Hawkins, along with fellow running back Ashton Gray, is expected to make this significant move following their explosive performance in the New Mexico Bowl against San Diego State.
Hawkins delivered a standout performance, rushing for 198 yards on 30 carries and scoring two touchdowns. He also contributed with three receptions for 25 yards and a receiving touchdown. Meanwhile, Gray added 152 yards on 16 carries and matched Hawkins with two rushing touchdowns. This victory marks a pivotal moment for the Mean Green, but it comes amid a wave of player departures following a successful season.
Hawkins, a true freshman, was a cornerstone of the UNT offense throughout the season. He earned the title of American Conference Rookie of the Year and was named to the first team all-conference. His impressive statistics include 1,432 rushing yards, 370 receiving yards, and 29 total touchdowns on 230 carries and 32 receptions.
The departure of head coach Eric Morris, who has accepted a position at Oklahoma State, has further complicated the situation for the Mean Green. With the landscape of college football shifting rapidly, Hawkins and Gray are likely not the last players to seek new opportunities. The attention now turns to star quarterback Drew Mestemaker, whose potential decision to enter the transfer portal could be the next major development for the team.
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on these developments. The transfer portal is expected to remain a hot topic as players seek to capitalize on their opportunities in this changing environment.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
