ESPN BOMBSHELL NEWS: Baylor Bears Head Coach Dave Aranda Shocks College Football by Rejecting $7.5 Million Offers from Texas Tech and Alabama — Reaffirms Loyalty to Baylor
In a stunning turn of events that has rocked the college football world, Baylor Bears head coach Dave Aranda has turned down massive $7.5 million annual offers from both Texas Tech and Alabama, choosing instead to remain in Waco and continue building his legacy at Baylor University.
The news, broken by ESPN early this morning, has ignited widespread reactions across the NCAA — from admiration to disbelief — as Aranda’s decision defies the increasingly common trend of high-profile coaches chasing bigger checks and higher-profile programs. While many in the college football sphere were bracing for another seismic coaching move, Aranda’s decision to stay has sent a loud and clear message: loyalty, purpose, and unfinished business still matter.
> “I believe in what we’re building here at Baylor,” Aranda said in a statement. “This isn’t just about wins — it’s about molding character, creating a culture of excellence, and doing things the right way. My heart is here. My family is here. My future is here.”
Both Texas Tech and Alabama reportedly offered record-setting deals, complete with extensive staff control, luxury facilities, and NIL program budgets. For Aranda to walk away from that — especially from an Alabama program widely considered one of the most prestigious jobs in all of sports — speaks volumes about his values and vision.
Baylor athletic director Mack Rhoades praised Aranda’s decision, calling it a defining moment in Baylor’s athletic history:
> “Dave Aranda is a coach of incredible integrity and humility. His decision to stay shows his true character and the deep-rooted belief he has in Baylor, our student-athletes, and our mission.”
Aranda took the reins at Baylor in 2020 and quickly turned heads with his cerebral, calm, and purpose-driven leadership style. In just a short span, he led the Bears to a Big 12 Championship, a Sugar Bowl victory, and multiple Top-25 finishes, all while emphasizing player development, emotional intelligence, and academic success.
Yet, his choice hasn’t gone without controversy. Some critics argue that Aranda passed up an opportunity to elevate his career to the elite tier of college football. Alabama, with its national spotlight and historic legacy, could have opened doors to national championships and a Hall of Fame résumé. But supporters argue that building a powerhouse at Baylor — a program not traditionally seen in the same tier — could cement Aranda’s legacy as one of the most principled and impactful coaches in college football history.
Social media exploded after the announcement, with Baylor fans flooding timelines with hashtags like #ArandaForever and #LoyalToTheGreenAndGold. Even some rival coaches and players chimed in with respect.
As college football continues to evolve in the era of NIL, mega contracts, and conference realignment, Dave Aranda’s decision stands as a powerful reminder that some leaders still choose purpose over profit.
And with this bold move, Dave Aranda isn’t just coaching a football team —
he’s leading a movement.
