Breaking News: Dave Aranda Announces the Return of Mike Singletary to Baylor Football Program
WACO, TX – January 2, 2025 – In a surprising and exciting development, Baylor Bears head coach Dave Aranda announced this afternoon that legendary NFL linebacker Mike Singletary will be returning to the Baylor football program in an official coaching role. Singletary, widely regarded as one of the most iconic players in NFL history, will rejoin the Bears’ coaching staff starting this season, marking a full-circle moment for both the program and the Hall of Famer.
Singletary’s return to Baylor is a momentous event in the world of college football. The former Chicago Bears star, known for his leadership, passion, and unrelenting drive on the field, is expected to bring that same intensity to Baylor’s defensive unit. Although the exact role he will assume is still being finalized, sources close to the team suggest he will serve as a linebackers coach and defensive advisor, with an emphasis on mentoring and developing the next generation of defensive stars at Baylor.
“I’ve always been a believer in the power of mentorship,” said Singletary in a statement issued through Baylor’s athletics department. “When Coach Aranda reached out to me, I saw this as an opportunity to help these young men not just grow on the field, but off it as well. Baylor has a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled to be back to contribute to this program’s success.”
Singletary’s ties to Baylor date back to his college days, where he played linebacker for the Bears from 1977 to 1980. His time at Baylor was marked by outstanding performance and leadership, setting the stage for a legendary NFL career. After being drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft, Singletary went on to become a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a key figure in the Bears’ Super Bowl XX victory. A Hall of Fame induction in 1998 further cemented his status as one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the game.
Dave Aranda, who took over as Baylor’s head coach in 2020, has worked to build a program focused on defensive strength, and the addition of Singletary is seen as a major coup. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership skills, Aranda has been rebuilding Baylor’s defense with a particular emphasis on creating a disciplined, high-energy unit. Singletary’s experience and presence will undoubtedly bolster that effort.
“This is a game-changer for us,” said Aranda during the press conference. “Mike is a living legend, and his football IQ is off the charts. He’s one of the best to ever play the game, and his insight into the linebacker position will be invaluable. But beyond that, his ability to teach life lessons through football, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to excellence—those are qualities we want to instill in our players every day.”
Baylor’s defense has been a key component of their success under Aranda, and Singletary’s addition could elevate it even further. The Bears finished 2024 with a solid 9-4 record and a bowl appearance, but they will now look to build on that foundation with Singletary’s guidance, particularly in the linebacking corps, an area where Baylor has seen significant improvement under Aranda’s watch.
Fans and former players have also expressed their excitement over Singletary’s return to the Baylor family. “To have someone like Mike Singletary back in the program is a huge deal for Baylor football,” said former Bears linebacker Bryce Hager. “His influence, his passion for the game, and his ability to push players to be their best is unmatched.”
Singletary’s return to Waco is a historic moment that highlights the growing prestige of Baylor football under Aranda. As the program continues to rise, the addition of such a renowned figure is expected to pay dividends both on and off the field.
Stay tuned as more details about Singletary’s official role and his impact on Baylor’s upcoming season unfold.
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