Baylor running back Richard Reese plans to enter NCAA transfer portal

Baylor running back Richard Reese plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal, he announced Thursday evening via X. Reese wound up spending three seasons in Waco and was named the 2022 Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year.

“First and foremost, I want to thank Baylor University, my coaches, teammates, and the incredible Baylor family for the love and support over the past three years,” Reese said in a statement. “Wearing green and gold has been an honor, and I’m forever grateful for the memories, friendships, and opportunities I’ve had in Waco.

“After much prayer and conversation, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal to find the best place for my future both on and off the field. This journey is far from over, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

Reese played high school football at Bellville (TX), where he was a three-star prospect. He was the No. 716 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Success instantly found Reese as a true freshman. He ran for 972 yards and 14 touchdowns on 198 carries and as mentioned, won Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. However, over the next two years, Reese was not used as often, leading to a decrease in production.

During the 2024 season, the running back produced 241 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Not the type of production you would expect from someone two years removed from winning such a prestigious award.

Maybe there is some special teams value in Reese’s next destination. Two kickoff returns turned into touchdowns as a sophomore, leading the country in yards per return at 32.8.

“Yes, I think he’s a guy that plays hard, that plays with passion, that is way-driven, that is humble and always wanting to learn, and is someone that plays with his heart on fire,” Baylor head coach Dave Aranda said of Reese back in 2022. “Really, when you ask that question, that’s the first thing I can think of is just how passionate he is.”

Right now, the transfer portal is not open. Spring practice is getting underway across the country and must be completed before players can enter their names on the open market. Reese can begin his search for a new program on April 16, hoping to find a new home ahead of the 2025 season.