Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back Calvin Simpson-Hunt has officially signed with the Baylor Bears, marking an exciting new chapter in his college football journey. This move has been confirmed by On3’s Pete Nakos, and it comes as a significant addition to Baylor’s roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Calvin Simpson-Hunt’s High School Glory
Simpson-Hunt’s football journey began at Waxahachie High School in Texas, where he quickly made a name for himself. As a four-star recruit in the Class of 2023, he earned a prominent spot in the On3 Industry Ranking, being recognized as the seventh-ranked cornerback and the 58th overall player in his recruiting cycle. His impressive high school career not only highlighted his skills on the gridiron but also showcased his athletic prowess on the track.
A Dual-Sport Athlete
In addition to his football accomplishments, Simpson-Hunt demonstrated remarkable speed and agility as a track athlete. He clocked an impressive 10.97 seconds in the 100 meters and 22.00 seconds in the 200 meters during his sophomore year in the spring of 2021. These achievements underscore his athletic versatility, but it was clear that football was his primary focus. His dedication culminated in a prestigious appearance in the All-America Bowl, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier prospect.
Experience with the Buckeyes
Once he joined the Ohio State Buckeyes, Simpson-Hunt continued to develop his skills and contribute to the team. Over the course of his time with the Buckeyes, he played in 14 games and recorded four tackles. In the 2024 season, he appeared in nine games, playing a crucial role in helping Ohio State secure the national championship. His commitment to excellence was recognized when he was named an OSU Scholar-Athlete, a testament to his hard work both on and off the field.
Despite only playing five games as a freshman and receiving a redshirt for that year, Simpson-Hunt has three more seasons of eligibility remaining. This means that he has ample opportunity to make a significant impact at Baylor as he transitions into this new phase of his career.
Baylor Bears: A Team in Transition
Baylor is coming off an 8-5 season, which included a loss in the Texas Bowl. The year was a roller coaster for the Bears, who started with a challenging 2-4 record before rallying to achieve a six-game winning streak. Head coach Dave Aranda, known for his defensive acumen, is set to return for his sixth season in Waco in 2025.
However, despite Aranda’s defensive expertise, the Bears faced challenges on that side of the ball in 2024. They finished the season ranked 81st in scoring defense, allowing an average of 26.7 points per game. The passing defense struggled as well, landing at 94th in the nation, giving up an average of 234.2 yards per game. While the team managed to intercept 14 passes, it was clear that there was room for improvement.
The Transfer Portal and Baylor’s Future
The transfer portal, which opened on December 9th and closed on December 28th, plays a crucial role in shaping college football rosters. This window allows players to seek new opportunities, and with another transfer window set to open in the spring, teams are actively looking to bolster their squads. Baylor has already made significant strides in this area, currently boasting the 20th-ranked transfer class for the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 College Football Team Transfer Portal Rankings.
This class includes 12 players who have departed and 11 newcomers, with Calvin Simpson-Hunt now joining the ranks. His addition is expected to enhance Baylor’s defensive capabilities, providing a much-needed boost as they aim to improve their performance in the upcoming season.
What Lies Ahead for Simpson-Hunt and Baylor
As Calvin Simpson-Hunt embarks on this new journey with the Baylor Bears, fans are eager to see how he will contribute to the team’s defensive strategy. With his background as a top recruit and his experience at Ohio State, he brings a wealth of talent and determination to Waco. The question on everyone’s mind is: how will he adapt to his new environment and make an impact on the field?
With the Bears looking to improve their defensive statistics and build on last season’s successes, Simpson-Hunt’s arrival could be a game-changer. As he joins a team eager to rise in the rankings, the anticipation builds. Will he become a cornerstone of Baylor’s defense? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: college football fans will be watching closely as this exciting transition unfolds.
To stay updated on the latest player movements and developments in college football, keep an eye on On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The landscape of college football is always evolving, and with players like Calvin Simpson-Hunt making headlines, there’s never a dull moment in the world of college athletics.
