In a surprising turn of events, Baylor University head football coach Dave Aranda has announced his retirement, effective immediately. This decision comes amid reports of a payment dispute that led to the cancellation of his anticipated commitment to a new football program.
Aranda, who took the helm at Baylor in 2020, has had a tenure marked by both remarkable successes and challenges. In 2021, he led the Bears to a Big 12 Championship and a school-record 12 wins, culminating in a Sugar Bowl victory. His leadership during that season earned him a contract extension through 2028.
However, the subsequent seasons saw fluctuations in the team’s performance. After a 3-9 record in 2023, Aranda faced scrutiny but managed a commendable turnaround in 2024, guiding Baylor to bowl eligibility with a 6-4 record by mid-November. His commitment to enhancing the program was evident in his candid acknowledgment of the evolving landscape of college football recruiting, stating, “We’re paying players,” during the Big 12 Media Days, highlighting Baylor’s proactive approach to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
The specifics of the payment disagreement that led to Aranda’s retirement and the cancellation of his new coaching commitment remain undisclosed. This unexpected development leaves Baylor University at a crossroads as they embark on the search for a new head coach to lead the Bears into the upcoming season.
Aranda’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Baylor football history, characterized by resilience, adaptation, and a pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.