“We’re paying players”: Baylor HC Dave Aranda drops blunt statement on Bears’ successful recruiting run

Baylor Bears head coach Dave Aranda credits "paying" the players for boosting the team's recruiting success in the Big 12, especially after a challenging 2024 recruiting season. The Bears are set to benefit from a more open Big 12, following the departures of Texas and Oklahoma.

On Wednesday, Aranda, who already has 15 commitments for the 2025 class, told reporters at the Big 12 Media Days in Las Vegas:

“We are paying players.”

When asked if it’s that simple, Aranda responded:

“Yes.”

Everything seems to be going well for the program right now. Earlier this month, four-star defensive lineman Kamauryn Morgan signed with Baylor.

This was followed by three-star defensive lineman Jackson Blackwell and three-star wide receiver Jacorey Watson committing on July 1 and July 2, respectively. The key to Baylor's recruiting success is straightforward: Name, image, and likeness (NIL) greatly benefit the program.

Dave Aranda, now in his fifth year as head coach, has a record of 23-25 over four seasons at Baylor. Despite a tough 3-9 season last year, the Bears seem to be building something special.

The NIL support might have bought Aranda more time to develop his plans. The Bears are currently ranked No. 47 in the On3 Industry Team recruiting rankings and No. 8 in the Big 12.

According to On3, Baylor has partnered with GXG, a non-profit organization that collaborates with donors to provide NIL opportunities for athletes. In February, GXG Elite was introduced as an NIL membership program for Baylor fans and donors.

Dave Aranda’s Bears could be optimistic about the season coming up

Baylor Bears head coach Dave Aranda.[IMAGN]

Three years ago, Dave Aranda led Baylor to a Big 12 title, and fans celebrated finding their long-term coach.

This spring, Baylor Bears' deputy athletic director Jovan Overshown shared that funding for player endorsements has doubled since last year. This has ensured that Baylor can attract and keep top talent.

The Bears have been active in recruiting, adding quarterback Dequan Finn from Toledo and wide receiver Ashtyn Hawkins from Texas State.

“I think the way it stands right now just with our record and with the amount of freshmen that are playing on our team. …. We are kind of the perfect example of a team to be poached [by other teams],” Aranda said in November [h/t On3]. “So, all that’s in play right now and is happening right now and is something that I’m spending a lot of time on.”

Baylor kicks off the 2024 season against Tarleton State on Aug. 31 at McLane Stadium, starting at 6 p.m. CT on ESPN+. With these new players, the Bears and coach Dave Aranda are hopeful for a much better season.