Wynnewood (Okla.) High running back Caden Knighten announced his commitment to Baylor on Tuesday. Other offers included Vanderbilt, Colorado, Michigan State and USC.
The 6-foot, 190-pound Knighten is tabbed by 247Sports Composite as a four-star recruit and the nation’s No. 23 running back. He is one of the jewels of a Baylor class that ranks No. 13 early in the cycle.
“Just the people, the coaches,” Knighten said of what made Baylor right for him. Khenon Hall was the lead recruiter.
“The way Coach Hall, back when I was a freshman he was my first offer when he was at SMU. It made me trust him more, trust the program. We’ve been in touch for awhile and making me feel at home.
“It felt like a good look and great place to call home.”
As a sophomore Knighten used his 10.6 speed in the 100m dash to rush for 2,278 yards and 35 touchdowns, averaging over 10 yards per carry. He’ll give Dave Aranda and his staff one of the more dynamic players in the country at the position.
“Their academics,” Knighten said of what else stood out. “That’s what me and my family really look for in a college. It’s about being a student-athlete, getting that degree doing all that and a degree from Baylor University is highly looked at. I take pride in that.
“It’s also a Christian school. I’m very set on my faith with God and everything. I feel like that will be a very good fit for me.”
Knighten will visit Baylor the weekend of May 9 where he looks forward to spending time with Dave Aranda.
“I like his demeanor,” Knighten. said. “You can trust the guy by the way he talks and fully listens. I think he’s a great coach. Coach Hall really respects him, told me so much about him. I think he’s a great man and role model.”
Knighten trains with Sean Cooper the owner of C4SportOklahoma. He breaks down what Baylor is getting.
“His explosiveness,” Cooper highlighted. “His speed and he’s a dog. He’s a dog all the way. His toughness. He drives an hour to work out here so that tells you about his character. He’s in the elite category with his explosiveness, 200 pounds, running 10.6, two-time state champ, he has heart.”