Baylor Bears head coach Dave Aranda has orchestrated a significant turnaround in the program’s recruiting efforts for the 2025 class, positioning Baylor for a promising future in college football. After a challenging 2024 recruiting cycle, where the Bears finished with the No. 62 class nationally, Aranda and his staff have made strategic adjustments, resulting in a current ranking of No. 31 in the nation.
Key Commitments:
1. Michael Turner: A four-star running back from North Richland Hills, Texas, Turner is ranked as the No. 5 RB in the nation. His commitment was a significant win for Baylor, especially considering he was previously leaning towards SMU.
2. Kamauryn Morgan: Hailing from Red Oak, Texas, Morgan is a four-star EDGE rusher who chose Baylor over programs like Texas A&M and SMU. His decision underscores Baylor’s growing appeal to top defensive talents.
3. Taz Williams Jr.: A four-star wide receiver, Williams committed to Baylor, turning down offers from Michigan and Penn State. His addition bolsters the Bears’ offensive arsenal.
4. Jacorey Watson: Another four-star wide receiver from Pearland, Texas, Watson’s commitment adds depth and speed to Baylor’s receiving corps.
These commitments have not only elevated Baylor’s national recruiting standing but also placed them third in the 2025 Big 12 conference recruiting rankings. The Bears are now tied with TCU and UCF, each boasting four four-star commitments.
A pivotal factor in this recruiting resurgence is Baylor’s enhanced approach to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Initially slow to embrace the NIL landscape, Baylor has made significant strides with initiatives like GXG, a non-profit organization partnering with donors to provide NIL options for athletes. The introduction of GXG Elite in February offers fans and donors exclusive benefits, including access to special events and unique merchandise, thereby strengthening the program’s appeal to recruits.
Reflecting on the program’s recent recruiting success, Coach Aranda candidly stated, “We’re paying players.” He emphasized the importance of balancing financial incentives with genuine relationships and mentorship, cautioning against a purely transactional approach. Aranda highlighted the necessity of embracing the current landscape while maintaining the program’s core values.
The 2025 recruiting class signifies a strategic shift for Baylor, combining top-tier talent acquisition with a commitment to player development and program integrity. As the Bears continue to build momentum, the future of Baylor football under Coach Aranda’s leadership appears increasingly bright.
