In the revamped Big 12 conference, talent and athleticism reign supreme, a truth that holds just as much weight in the conference’s new iteration as it did in its previous form. Thankfully, the Baylor Bears are about as fast and athletic as you can get.
With the recent additions of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah in 2024, following the entrance of BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, and Houston in 2023, the competition has intensified, presenting a formidable challenge for all involved.
For Big 12 schools, the pursuit of top-tier talent has never been more crucial, given the heightened level of competition. This underscores the significance of securing commitments from standout prospects like four-star running back Caden Knighten, a notable acquisition for Dave Aranda and the Baylor football program.
Hailing from Wynnewood, Oklahoma, Knighten emerges as a coveted prospect, holding the impressive distinction of being ranked as the 23rd best running back nationally for the class of 2025. His high school performance is nothing short of stellar, having amassed an impressive 2,278 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns across 12 games last season. Averaging nearly three touchdowns and 189 rushing yards per game, Knighten’s statistics place him firmly in the elite category.
Furthermore, his remarkable speed, evident in his 4.46-second 40-yard dash and 10.74-second 100-meter dash, adds another dimension to his already formidable skill set.
Baylor’s allure for Knighten lies not only in its athletic program but also in its academic offerings, a fact that undoubtedly influenced his decision.
Despite initial commitment to Vanderbilt, Knighten ultimately chose Baylor over other prominent contenders such as Colorado, Michigan State, USC, and his former choice, the Commodores.
With the Baylor Bears, Knighten sees the perfect combination of athletic opportunity and academic excellence, making his commitment a significant win for the program.
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