As the 2026 college football season approaches, Baylor University is pinning its hopes on a dynamic blend of experienced transfers and highly touted freshmen who are expected to make immediate contributions on both sides of the ball.
Among the standouts is redshirt freshman wide receiver Taz Williams Jr., who emerged in four games last season and is now being counted on as a reliable target and emerging leader in the receiving corps.
A New Generation of Playmakers
True freshman London Smith arrives from Waco, where he amassed more than 1,400 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns in his senior year, and coaches are already praising his polished route running and ability to stretch the field.
Running back Ryelan Morris, another freshman, brings a prolific high school resume of over 2,100 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, giving the Bears a potent weapon in the backfield.
Offensive lineman Donel Robinson Jr., noted for his aggressive, ‘dog‑mentality’ approach, could benefit from the program’s evolving front office, despite a raw technique that still requires refinement.
At quarterback, the competition between Quinn Murphy and Edward Griffin to back up DJ Lagway is intensifying, with Murphy’s athleticism and Griffin’s poise drawing particular attention as the staff evaluates who can best complement the starter.
Defensively, senior Jae’Lin Battle is slated for rotational work after posting 62 tackles and 17 tackles for loss, while linebacker Jamarion Phillips, who logged 90 tackles and 23 tackles for loss in his sophomore and junior seasons, may carve out a role on special teams and eventually on defense.
The collective expectation is clear: develop these young players quickly, integrate them into key positions, and shape a 2026 roster that can compete sooner rather than later.