Transfer Storm at Baylor: Malik Jefferson Tendors Transfer Request, Eyes Clemson and Florida Offers
Waco, TX – April 11, 2025
Just days after making headlines for a fiery locker room outburst and a jaw-dropping $15 million fine, Baylor Bears defensive star Malik “Tank” Jefferson has stunned the college football world yet again—this time by officially requesting a transfer.
In a brief but loaded social media post on Monday morning, Jefferson simply wrote, “I want to leave.” The message, shared on X (formerly Twitter), was accompanied by a picture of his locker at McLane Stadium—with his nameplate missing.
Sources within the Baylor athletic department have confirmed that Jefferson has tendered an official transfer request and entered the NCAA transfer portal. Despite the controversy swirling around him, Jefferson remains one of the most sought-after talents in college football, and it didn’t take long for powerhouse programs to come knocking.
Early reports suggest both Clemson and Florida have made substantial offers for Jefferson through their NIL collectives, with insiders estimating potential earnings in the range of $2 to $3 million annually. A source close to Jefferson’s camp says the defensive phenom is “leaning toward Florida,” citing “program culture and defensive scheme fit” as key factors.
Jefferson’s transfer request follows a turbulent week in Waco. After the Bears’ heartbreaking 27-24 loss to Texas, Jefferson erupted in the locker room—causing significant damage to facilities and prompting disciplinary measures. While Baylor attempted to move forward, the relationship between Jefferson and the coaching staff appeared strained.
“He felt like he was being made the scapegoat for a team-wide failure,” said an anonymous teammate. “The fine, the backlash—it all added up. I think he’s just ready for a fresh start.”
Baylor head coach Dave Aranda addressed the media briefly on Tuesday. “Malik is a tremendous talent, and while emotions got the best of him recently, we respect his decision to explore other opportunities. We’re focused on moving forward with the guys who want to be here.”
The potential loss of Jefferson is a massive blow to the Bears’ defense. The 6’5″, 275-pound junior led the team in sacks and tackles for loss last season and was widely viewed as the emotional anchor of the unit—until now.
For Jefferson, this transfer may be more than just a football move. It represents a chance to reset his image, refocus his energy, and potentially raise his NFL Draft stock. Both Clemson and Florida offer big stages and national exposure, plus elite coaching—crucial factors as he prepares for the leap to the pros.
“He knows the microscope is on him now,” said his high school coach, DeShawn Banks. “But don’t count him out. Malik’s been through storms before. He just wants a program that believes in him and helps him channel his fire the right way.”
As the portal carousel spins and suitors line up, one thing is clear: Malik Jefferson’s next move will be one of the most closely watched transfers in recent memory.
