Baylor Bears Depth Chart: Your Ultimate Guide To The 2023 Roster

by Travis
21 April 2025

So, you’re here because you want to dive deep into the world of college football, and more specifically, the Baylor Bears depth chart. Let’s be real—college football is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a curious newcomer, or someone trying to impress their friends at tailgate season, understanding the depth chart is key to staying in the game. And trust me, the Baylor Bears have been building something special in Waco. So grab a snack, sit back, and let’s break it down.

When it comes to college football, the depth chart is like the blueprint for success. It’s not just a list of players; it’s a strategic roadmap that coaches use to position their team for greatness. For the Baylor Bears, this depth chart holds the promise of a strong season, with talent stacked across the board. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the roster, the key players to watch, and what this means for the Bears’ future.

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why the depth chart matters so much. It’s not just about who’s playing—it’s about how they play, who’s backing them up, and how the team can adapt to injuries or unexpected challenges. In a high-stakes league like the Big 12, having depth is crucial. And the Baylor Bears are proving that they’re ready to compete at the highest level.

What Is a Depth Chart Anyway?

Alright, let’s get one thing straight. If you’re new to college football, you might be wondering, “What exactly is a depth chart?” Well, it’s basically a list that shows the starting players and backups for each position on the team. Think of it as a hierarchy of talent. The first name on the chart is usually the starter, followed by the second-string player, and so on. For the Baylor Bears, this depth chart is more than just a list—it’s a reflection of their strategy and preparation.

Having a solid depth chart means more than just having good players. It means having versatility, resilience, and the ability to adapt when things don’t go according to plan. Injuries happen, and when they do, having a strong backup plan is essential. The Bears have been working hard to build depth across all positions, and it shows.

Baylor Bears Depth Chart: Breaking Down the Offense

Quarterbacks: Who’s Calling the Shots?

Let’s start with the most important position on the field—the quarterback. For the Baylor Bears, the QB situation is looking promising. Heading into the 2023 season, we’ve got a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Starting QB: Blake Shapen
Backup QB: Gerry Bohanon
Third-string QB: A young talent with potential

Blake Shapen has been a force to reckon with, showcasing leadership and precision on the field. Gerry Bohanon, on the other hand, brings experience and grit. And let’s not forget the up-and-coming talent waiting in the wings. This trio gives the Bears a solid foundation for their offensive game plan.

Rushing Game: Who’s Carrying the Load?

When it comes to running backs, the Baylor Bears have depth that rivals some of the best teams in the nation. Here are the key players to watch:

Terry Smith: The workhorse of the team
Richard Reese: Speed and agility
Trey Thomas: Emerging talent

Terry Smith has been a beast on the field, consistently delivering big plays. Richard Reese adds a dynamic element with his speed, while Trey Thomas is showing promise as a freshman. This trio gives the Bears versatility in their rushing game, making them a tough team to defend against.

Defense: The Backbone of the Bears

Linebackers: Stopping the Opposition

On the defensive side, the linebackers are the backbone of the team. They’re the ones making tackles, reading the offense, and shutting down plays before they even start. Here’s a look at the key linebackers for the 2023 season:

Starting MLB: Jalen Pitre
Backup MLB: Isaiah Thomas
Third-string MLB: A rising star

Jalen Pitre has been a standout player for the Bears, consistently delivering big hits and making crucial plays. Isaiah Thomas provides solid backup, and the third-string player is showing potential to step up when needed. This depth gives the Bears confidence in their defensive lineup.

Secondary: Protecting the Skies

No defense is complete without a strong secondary. The Bears have been working hard to build a formidable group of defensive backs, and it’s paying off. Here’s a quick look at the key players:

Starting CB: Jordan Williams
Backup CB: D.J. Shepherd
Safety: Greg Roberts

Jordan Williams has been a lockdown corner, shutting down opposing receivers with ease. D.J. Shepherd provides reliable backup, and Greg Roberts anchors the safety position with his leadership and experience. This secondary is ready to protect the skies and keep opposing offenses in check.

Special Teams: The Unsung Heroes

Kickers and Punters: Precision Matters

Let’s not forget about the special teams. While they might not get as much attention as the offense or defense, they play a crucial role in determining the outcome of games. Here’s a look at the key players:

Kicker: John Mayers
Punter: James Smith
Return Specialist: Terry Smith

John Mayers has been consistent from the field goal range, while James Smith delivers pinpoint punts to pin opponents deep in their own territory. And let’s not forget Terry Smith, who doubles as a return specialist, adding an extra dimension to the team’s special teams play.

Coaching Staff: The Masterminds Behind the Scenes

Head Coach: Dave Aranda

When you talk about the Baylor Bears, you can’t ignore the impact of head coach Dave Aranda. He’s been instrumental in building the program into a powerhouse in the Big 12. Aranda’s strategic mind and attention to detail have transformed the Bears into a team that can compete with anyone.

Under Aranda’s leadership, the Bears have focused on building depth across all positions, ensuring that they’re prepared for any challenge. His ability to develop talent and adapt to new situations has been a key factor in the team’s success.

Assistant Coaches: The Unsung Heroes

Of course, no coach works alone. The assistant coaches play a crucial role in shaping the team’s strategy and developing individual players. From offensive coordinators to defensive line coaches, the Bears have a strong support system in place to ensure success.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Baylor Bears?

Recruiting: Building for the Future

As the season progresses, the Bears will continue to focus on recruiting top talent to strengthen their depth chart. With a strong program and a winning tradition, they’re in a great position to attract some of the best players in the country.

Schedule: A Tough Road Ahead

The 2023 schedule is shaping up to be a challenging one for the Bears. With tough matchups against teams like Texas, Oklahoma, and TCU, they’ll need to rely on their depth and preparation to come out on top. But with a solid depth chart and a strong coaching staff, they’re ready for the challenge.

Conclusion: Why the Depth Chart Matters

As we wrap up this deep dive into the Baylor Bears depth chart, it’s clear that this team is built for success. With talent stacked across all positions, they’re ready to compete at the highest level. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into college football, the Bears are a team worth watching.

So, what’s next? Take a moment to share this article with your friends, drop a comment below, or check out some of our other articles for more insights into the world of college football. The game is just getting started, and the Baylor Bears are poised to make a big impact. Let’s go Bears!