Baylor has secured another key addition through the transfer portal with the commitment of former FIU linebacker Travion Barnes. Barnes, who had an outstanding season with the Panthers, is the eighth player to join Baylor’s roster from the portal this year. The linebacker’s impressive statistics at FIU, including 129 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 2 interceptions, earned him the title of Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year. His performance last season helped raise his profile as one of the top defensive players available on the transfer market.
Before his time at FIU, Barnes spent two years in the junior college ranks at Georgia Military College, where he gained recognition as one of the top linebackers in the country. He was ranked as the No. 14 linebacker in the 2024 247Sports JUCO rankings, showcasing his potential even before his breakout season with FIU. His experience at both the junior college and NCAA levels has made him a highly sought-after prospect for programs like Baylor, which is looking to strengthen its defense.
Barnes officially entered the transfer portal on December 2nd, quickly attracting interest from several programs. He visited Baylor shortly after announcing his decision to transfer, where he spent significant time building a relationship with Jamar Chaney, Baylor’s inside linebackers coach. Chaney, who also hails from Florida, played a key role in convincing Barnes to commit to the Bears, highlighting the opportunity to develop further in Baylor’s defensive scheme.
In addition to Barnes, Baylor also added another transfer linebacker, Phoenix Jackson from Fresno State, just days earlier. The Bears are clearly focusing on improving their linebacker corps for the upcoming season, and both Barnes and Jackson are expected to make an immediate impact. With two strong additions at linebacker, Baylor is reinforcing a critical position as they look to compete in the Big 12 and build on their recent successes.
The commitment of Barnes adds depth and talent to a Baylor defense that is aiming to become more competitive in the coming years. His experience, leadership, and defensive prowess will be valuable assets as Baylor seeks to bolster its lineup for 2025. With Barnes joining the ranks, the Bears are looking poised to strengthen their defense and make strides toward becoming a top contender in their conference.
