Paul Gonzales’s Coaching Background
Gonzales’s coaching career at TCU has been marked by significant achievements. He initially joined the Horned Frogs as a graduate assistant in 2012 and transitioned to coaching cornerbacks from 2015 to 2017. During this time, he helped the Horned Frogs rank first in the Big 12 for opponent completion percentage and fewest touchdown passes allowed in 2015. His expertise contributed to TCU’s defensive success, including mentoring standout players like Tre’von Moehrig, who went on to win the 2020 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award and was drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders. In his role as safeties coach, Gonzales developed six players who eventually reached the NFL, showcasing his ability to cultivate talent at a high level. His experience with both cornerbacks and safeties positions him uniquely to enhance Baylor’s defensive strategies.
Challenges Ahead for Baylor’s Secondary
The hiring of Gonzales comes at a crucial time for Baylor football, especially after a challenging 2024 season where the team ranked 11th in the Big 12 in pass defense, allowing over 230 yards per game. Following a disappointing performance in the Texas Bowl against LSU, head coach Dave Aranda emphasized the need for improvement in attention to detail within the secondary. He stated that this group must take “the biggest step forward” as they prepare for the upcoming season. With returning players like Caden Jenkins, Reggie Bush II, LeVar Thornton, and Tevin Williams III, Gonzales will have a foundation to build upon. However, Baylor is also expected to explore options in the transfer portal to fill gaps left by departing players Lorando Johnson and Chateau Reed.
Looking Forward
Gonzales’s dual role as Passing Game Coordinator will also involve strategizing against opposing offenses, making him a key figure in Baylor’s defensive game plan. The combination of his extensive experience and proven track record at TCU offers hope for a revitalized secondary that can compete at a higher level in the Big 12. As Baylor football gears up for the 2025 season, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Gonzales’s leadership influences player development and overall team performance. His commitment to enhancing Baylor’s defensive capabilities could play a pivotal role in returning the program to its competitive stature within college football.
