As Baylor University gears up for the 2026 football season, head coach Dave Aranda is under considerable pressure to improve upon last year's disappointing performance. Following the resignation of the athletic director late last season, uncertainty surrounded Aranda's future with the program, making his return somewhat unexpected.
Entering his seventh season, Aranda will lead the team with DJ Lagway, a new quarterback who joined from Florida, alongside multiple new receivers and Joe Klanderman, the newly appointed defensive coordinator from Kansas State. Aranda's overall coaching record is currently 36-37, with last season ending in a 5-7 record, including a troubling three-game losing streak.
The Bears have struggled since their standout 2021 season, which saw them achieve a record-breaking 12 wins and secure the Big 12 championship. Since then, they have compiled a 22-28 record, with only one winning season in 2024.
Last year, the team averaged 31.1 points scored per game but allowed 32.6 points, along with a troubling total of 24 turnovers, the highest among the Power Four.
Despite the departure of leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, Baylor's running back lineup remains promising, featuring Caden Knighten, who rushed for 469 yards last season, and Dawson Pendergrass, who is returning from injury after a strong performance in 2024. However, the team faces challenges in the receiving corps, having lost their top five receivers from last year.
Six new receivers have been added, including transfers Dre’lon Miller and Gavin Freeman. The player with the most receptions returning is Jadon Porter, who had only nine catches for 85 yards last season.
