David Aranda returns as Baylor’s head coach following a 5-7 overall and 3-6 Big 12 campaign in 2025. Florida transfer DJ Lagway joins the program at quarterback. Baylor must replace leading rusher Bryson Washington, while Caden Knighten and Michael Turner return in the backfield. Dawson Pendergrass also returns after missing the 2025 season. The Bears must replace their top six players in receiving production from last season, while Colorado transfer Dre’Lon Miller and Oklahoma State transfer Gavin Freeman join the receiving corps. The offensive line returns Kaden Sieracki after making 12 starts last season, while Koltin Sieracki also returns after making three. Toledo transfer Cole Rhett and South Alabama transfer Asher Hale join a group that will feature several new starters in 2026.

Joe Klanderman takes over as defensive coordinator after previously holding the same position at Kansas State. Baylor returns five of its top eleven tacklers from last season despite losing its top two. Devonte Tezino returns along the defensive front, while Indiana transfer Hosea Wheeler joins the group. Kyland Reed returns at linebacker, while Kansas State transfer Ryan Davis joins the defense at the JACK position. Jacob Redding, Tyler Turner, and LeVar Thornton Jr. return in the secondary.

Mark Scott returns as special teams coordinator. Baylor will feature a new placekicker in 2026, while Palmer Williams returns at punter after averaging 46.9 yards per punt last season. The Bears will feature new primary returners following the departures of Josh Cameron and Kole Wilson. Baylor enters 2026 with a transfer quarterback, several new starters along the offensive and defensive lines, and a new defensive coordinator.