Waco, UK – April 13, 2025 – The Baylor University football program has been thrown into unexpected turmoil following the sudden resignation of Head Football Coach Dave Aranda. The university confirmed the departure this morning with a brief statement acknowledging receipt of Aranda’s resignation letter and announcing the immediate commencement of a nationwide search for his replacement. The contents of the letter remain private, sparking a wave of speculation and unease surrounding the reasons behind his abrupt exit.
Aranda, who took over the Bears in January 2020 after a successful stint as defensive coordinator at LSU, leaves Baylor with an overall record of 23-25. While he led the program to a Big 12 Championship and a Sugar Bowl victory in 2021, the subsequent seasons saw a dip in performance, leading to increased pressure and scrutiny from the Baylor fanbase.
The timing of Aranda’s resignation, occurring in the heart of the offseason and with recruiting efforts in full swing for the upcoming 2026 class, has blindsided many within the Baylor community. Sources close to the program indicate that while there was an understanding of the need for improved results, Aranda’s departure was not anticipated at this juncture. This unforeseen vacancy at the helm of a Big 12 program with aspirations of national relevance has immediately set off a flurry of coaching search speculation.
A diverse range of candidates are expected to be considered for the Baylor job. Potential names being circulated include accomplished head coaches seeking a fresh start, successful offensive and defensive coordinators eager for their first head coaching opportunity, and even Baylor alumni who could bring a strong connection to the program and its traditions. Athletic Director Mack Rhoades is tasked with leading the crucial search process, aiming to identify a leader who can restore Baylor’s competitive standing within the evolving Big 12 Conference.
The sudden coaching change also introduces a significant element of uncertainty for the current Baylor Bears roster and their future recruiting endeavors. Players who chose Baylor and committed under Aranda’s leadership may now be weighing their options. The ability of the interim coaching staff to maintain team morale and retain key players, as well as to keep the current recruiting class intact, will be paramount in the coming weeks.
“This is an unexpected transition for our football program,” stated a university spokesperson during a hastily arranged press conference. “Coach Aranda is a man of integrity, and we appreciate his dedication and the success he brought to Baylor, including the memorable 2021 championship season. However, we are steadfast in our commitment to building a consistent winner on the field, and we will conduct a thorough and efficient search to find the right individual to lead our student-athletes.”
The resignation of Dave Aranda marks a pivotal moment for Baylor Football. The coming weeks will be critical as the university navigates the complexities of a coaching search while striving to provide stability for its players and reassure its loyal fanbase. The college football world will be keenly observing Baylor’s next move and the identity of the coach who will be entrusted with guiding the Bears into their
future.
