(BCSNN) — Baylor junior running back Dawson Pendergrass will miss the entire 2025 season after sustaining a foot injury during fall camp that will require surgery, head coach Dave Aranda confirmed. The setback removes a key piece from the Bears’ offensive backfield just weeks before their season opener against Auburn.

“It’s going to take the majority of the season to come back from it,” Aranda said. “We were hoping for better news after seeing the doctors and the X-rays, but it’s something Dawson is wrapping his mind around, and we’re all here to support him.” The injury is considered a “misfortune” by Aranda, who praised Pendergrass’ leadership and production over the past two seasons.

Pendergrass was expected to reprise his role as the No. 2 back behind redshirt sophomore Bryson Washington, forming one of the Big 12’s most productive duos. In 2024, Pendergrass rushed for 671 yards and six touchdowns, complementing Washington’s 1,028-yard, 12-touchdown campaign. The pair accounted for nearly 1,700 rushing yards and 18 scores last season.

With Pendergrass sidelined, Baylor’s depth chart will rely heavily on younger talent. Freshman Caden Knighten, a four-star recruit from Oklahoma, has drawn praise from coaches during fall camp and is expected to compete for the backup role. Redshirt freshman Joseph Dodds, who missed last season with an injury, is also in the mix. “We’ve got some young players that are going to be pressed into playing a little bit earlier than maybe they were thinking,” Aranda said.

The loss of Pendergrass not only affects Baylor’s rushing attack but also its versatility. The 6-foot-2, 234-pound back was a reliable short-yardage option and contributed in the passing game with 37 receptions over two seasons. His physical style and experience will be difficult to replicate, especially in early-season matchups against Auburn and SMU.

Baylor opens its season on Aug. 29 at home against Auburn. With Washington now carrying a heavier load and a reshuffled rotation behind him, the Bears will need rapid development from their young backs to maintain offensive balance. Pendergrass is expected to redshirt this season and will have two years of eligibility remaining.