I’M STAYING FOREVER: Baylor Bears Head Coach Dave Aranda Announces Permanent Contract Deal with the Bears Till Retirement After Groundbreaking Agreement with University Leadership
In a move that has stunned the college football world and delighted Baylor fans nationwide, Head Coach Dave Aranda has announced he is staying with the Baylor Bears for the remainder of his career. The university has struck a groundbreaking lifetime contract with Aranda—an unprecedented deal in modern collegiate sports—ensuring he will remain in Waco as long as he chooses to coach.
The announcement came earlier today during a press conference held at McLane Stadium, where Baylor University President Linda Livingstone and Athletic Director Mack Rhoades stood beside Aranda as he confirmed the landmark agreement. “I’m staying forever,” Aranda said with a smile, pausing for the roar of applause. “This is home. Baylor isn’t just where I coach. It’s where I belong.”
The permanent contract was finalized after months of quiet negotiations between Aranda, his representatives, and Baylor’s executive leadership. While the specific financial terms remain confidential, university officials described the deal as “a unique, flexible arrangement” that includes competitive compensation, long-term incentives, and expanded input for Aranda into broader athletic and academic decisions. Sources close to the program revealed the contract includes provisions for continued development of Aranda’s staff, facilities upgrades, and athlete wellness programs—further solidifying Baylor’s commitment to long-term excellence.
Aranda, who took the helm at Baylor in 2020 following a national championship-winning stint as LSU’s defensive coordinator, has turned the Bears into a Big 12 powerhouse and national contender. In just a few seasons, he has transformed the program with a culture rooted in discipline, humility, and emotional intelligence. His 2021 campaign, which brought Baylor its first 12-win season and a Sugar Bowl victory, signaled the dawn of a new era. Since then, his calm leadership and innovative football mind have drawn admiration from peers, alumni, and recruits alike.
“I’ve coached in a lot of places,” Aranda said, “but Baylor is different. Here, there’s a deeper mission. It’s not just about wins—it’s about shaping young men, building character, and serving the community.”
President Livingstone emphasized how the new contract is about more than football. “Coach Aranda represents everything we value at Baylor—excellence, integrity, and faith. We see this agreement not just as a commitment to wins on the field, but to the values that define our institution. We are proud to walk alongside Coach Aranda for decades to come.”
Athletic Director Mack Rhoades echoed that sentiment, stating, “In today’s sports landscape, loyalty is rare. But Coach Aranda has proven that this is more than a job to him—it’s a calling. This deal ensures that Baylor Football will continue to thrive under his vision, without the distractions of job speculation year after year.”
The announcement comes at a time when coaching turnover in college football is at an all-time high, with programs often chasing short-term success and big-name hires. Baylor’s move to lock in Aranda permanently is seen by many analysts as both bold and forward-thinking.
Recruits and current players took to social media almost immediately to share their excitement. Star quarterback Sawyer Robertson tweeted, “Coach Aranda’s staying forever? Let’s go! Baylor family just got stronger.” Parents of players also voiced their approval, citing Aranda’s steady leadership and focus on holistic development.
While no contract can literally bind a coach for life, both parties made clear that this deal is about intent and long-term alignment. Aranda has no interest in exploring the NFL or other major programs. His heart, he says, is with Baylor.
With this groundbreaking agreement, Baylor sends a clear message to the college football world: the Bears are building something enduring—and Dave Aranda is the foundation. As the stadium lights shine on McLane and fans chant “Sic ‘Em,” one thing is certain: the future in Waco has never looked brighter.