5 Baylor Football Players Who Improved Their Chances of Starting in 2026

Baylor kicks off against Auburn in two weeks in an already season-defining game. While some pieces are set in stone, there seem to be some starting spots up for grabs.

We recently named a few transfers that might not make the cut for the week one starting role; now let's look at five guys that are shaping up to get the nod against the Tigers.

Kaleb Burns, Linebacker

The Baylor defense needed a refresh after a pitiful performance from the 2025 squad; returning linebackers Kyland Reed and Travion Barnes are ready to lead the position group, but Kaleb Burns has emerged as a star in the unit.

"I mean the sky is the limit for Kaleb," said Coach Jamar Chaney. "Expect him to go out there and have a big year. I mean, athletic-wise, he's one of the most athletic linebackers I probably have been around. So, just finding ways that we can get him on the field and do it."

Logan Moore, Offensive Tackle

The offensive line has been a position of distress for Baylor football of late. Quarterback DJ Lagway is going to need a squad to step up after having only one returning starter from the position.

Moore is a UAB transfer and seems to be taking reps from previously expected starter Cole Rhett. It sounds like the senior will have the edge over Rhett even though Rhett has the size and hundreds of snaps at the right tackle role.

Devon Jordan, Cornerback

Jordan was a primary nickelback and No. 3 corner for the Sooners last season, playing in 13 games. His competition is Jayden Rowe, who has an injury-littered career with few snaps played as a true cornerback.

Jordan will bring speedy legs and College Football Playoff experience to the Bears' backfield but will need to prove his worth in one of Baylor's deeper units to keep the starting spot.

Kamren Washington, Defensive Tackle

Washington is joining the Bears after two years at Texas State and a year at Sam Houston. The lineman played all 13 games for the Bobcats in 2025 and notched 23 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and two sacks over his two-year span.

Washington is looking to beat out Jamaal Whyce Jr., who has a year less of real experience but is coming off a strong 2025 with 34 tackles at Marshall. I expect both of these guys to get a lot of snaps, but Washington to get the nod against Auburn.

London Smith, Wide Receiver

While Smith might not start Week one, I think he will emerge as a starter later in the season. He has been praised as a "top target" for Lagway in fall camp and will offer some friendly competition for guys like Gavin Freeman and Louis Brown IV.

The Waco native is a true freshman and might get thrown into more snaps than expected with the preseason injury of Taz Williams Jr.

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