Talent and athleticism will be crucial in the revamped Big 12 conference. While this statement could have been true for the old Big 12 as well, the addition of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah in 2024, along with newcomers BYU, UCF, Cincinnati, and Houston in 2023, has made the conference even more competitive.
Given this, recruiting top talent has become increasingly important for Big 12 schools. The addition of four-star running back Caden Knighten is significant for Dave Aranda and the Baylor football program.
Knighten, a 2025 recruit from Wynnewood, Oklahoma, is ranked as the No. 23 running back in the nation. He boasts an impressive high school profile, having rushed for 2,278 yards and 35 touchdowns in 12 games last year. With nearly three rushing touchdowns per game and an average of 189 rushing yards per contest, Knighten’s numbers are exceptional. He also possesses elite speed, recording a 40-yard dash time of 4.46 seconds and a 100-meter dash time of 10.74 seconds.
Knighten’s athleticism aligns with Baylor’s preferences, and he sees Baylor as the ideal place to further his academic and athletic pursuits.
“They stand out academically,” Knighten shared with 247Sports when discussing Baylor. “That’s a key factor for me and my family when considering colleges. Being a student-athlete and earning a degree is important, and a degree from Baylor University carries significant value. I take pride in that.”
Knighten, who was previously committed to Vanderbilt, opted for Baylor over Colorado, Michigan State, USC, and his former commitment, Vanderbilt.
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