The Texas Longhorns have lost another key assistant, this time to the NFL. Multiple reports indicate that Texas running backs coach Tashard Choice is leaving the Forty Acres to join the Detroit Lions under head coach Dan Campbell.

In Detroit, Choice will reunite with former Georgia Tech standout and current Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs—a player who helped cement his reputation as one of college football’s premier recruiters and talent developers.

Choice has been Texas’ running backs coach since 2022, developing a long list of future NFL talent. He helped guide Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson, Jonathon Brooks, Keilan Robinson, and Jaydon Blue who recently declared for the NFL Draft. Beyond player development, Choice made his mark as one of the country’s top recruiters. He played a pivotal role in landing highly touted prospects such as Cedric Baxter, Ryan Wingo, Jerrick Gibson, Quintrevion Wisner, and Christian Clark. In the 2025 cycle, he secured commitments from Rickey Stewart, Emaree Winston, and James Simon while helping Texas remain a top contender for 2026 running back Javian Osborn.

Choice reportedly fielded interest from multiple NFL teams, including the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders, before appearing to commit to Texas earlier this month. He hinted at staying by posting a photo of his newborn daughter flashing a “Hook ‘Em” sign with the caption, “Amya says Hook Em.” However, the Lions’ offer proved too enticing to pass up.