In one of the biggest transfer portal developments of the offseason, former Stanford standout EDGE rusher David Bailey has officially committed to Texas Tech. The 6’3”, 240-pound pass-rushing specialist from Orange, California, brings elite athleticism, Pac-12 experience, and high upside to a Red Raiders defense looking to take a major leap under head coach Joey McGuire.
Bailey’s commitment marks a huge win for Texas Tech in the ever-competitive transfer portal wars. With teams across the country looking to add immediate-impact talent to their front seven, Bailey had no shortage of suitors. But in the end, it was Texas Tech’s culture, vision, and trajectory that sealed the deal.
A Highly Coveted Transfer with Proven Production
Bailey was one of the top defenders available in the portal, and for good reason. During his time at Stanford, he emerged as a disruptive force off the edge, consistently affecting games with his burst, technique, and motor. In the 2023 season, Bailey recorded 46 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks, despite being the focal point of many opponents’ blocking schemes. His impact often went beyond the stat sheet, drawing double-teams and creating opportunities for teammates.
What makes Bailey special is his versatility. While primarily used as an EDGE rusher in Stanford’s scheme, he has also dropped into coverage and held up well against the run, showcasing an all-around game that should translate seamlessly to Big 12 play. His rare blend of size, speed, and football IQ gives Texas Tech a legitimate weapon who can thrive in multiple fronts and packages.
Why Texas Tech?
Bailey’s decision to commit to Texas Tech didn’t come lightly. With offers and interest from several Power Five schools, including programs in the SEC and Big Ten, his choice to head to Lubbock speaks volumes about the direction of the Red Raiders under Joey McGuire.
“Coach McGuire and Coach DeRuyter laid out a plan that made sense for my future,” Bailey said in a statement after announcing his commitment. “It’s more than just football — they’re building something real at Texas Tech. I believe in the vision, and I want to be part of a program that’s hungry and willing to put in the work.”
Texas Tech’s aggressive recruiting approach, commitment to player development, and upgraded facilities played a major role in Bailey’s decision. The staff emphasized how he would be featured in their defensive scheme and how his skillset could flourish in the Big 12, especially as the conference continues to evolve with the arrival of new teams.
A Defensive Identity Emerging
With Bailey in the fold, Texas Tech continues to solidify its defensive identity. Last season, the Red Raiders made noticeable improvements on that side of the ball but lacked consistent edge pressure, especially against elite competition. Bailey is expected to fill that void immediately.
Defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter is known for maximizing edge talent — his resume includes developing NFL pass rushers, including Kayvon Thibodeaux at Oregon. Bailey’s arrival presents another opportunity for DeRuyter to mold a high-level athlete into a dominant college and potentially pro-level player.
Bailey’s experience in a Power Five program also brings leadership and maturity to a relatively young defensive front. He will be expected to anchor the pass rush, but perhaps just as importantly, serve as a mentor to rising talent in the program.
What This Means for Texas Tech
Landing David Bailey sends a clear message: Texas Tech isn’t just collecting talent — they’re building a team capable of contending at the highest level. With a renewed focus on physicality, speed, and toughness on defense, the Red Raiders now have a game-changer who can elevate the entire unit.
Bailey’s commitment also underscores Texas Tech’s rising stock in the national picture. A few years ago, it might’ve been unlikely for a player of Bailey’s caliber to choose the Red Raiders over more “traditional” powerhouses. But McGuire has changed that narrative. Through relentless recruiting and establishing a player-first culture, Texas Tech has made Lubbock an increasingly attractive destination for elite transfers and high school recruits alike.
Looking Ahead
As the 2024 season approaches, David Bailey’s arrival will be one of the most-watched storylines for Texas Tech. Fans can expect to see No. 19 (or whatever number he chooses) flying off the edge, wreaking havoc in opposing backfields, and energizing Jones AT&T Stadium with every big play.
His decision to transfer to Texas Tech represents not just a new chapter in his football career, but a defining moment for a Red Raiders defense that has aspirations of becoming one of the Big 12’s best. With Bailey now part of the fold, those goals feel a lot more attainable.
Final Thoughts
David Bailey’s commitment is a massive victory for Texas Tech in more ways than one. It boosts the program’s immediate prospects on defense, validates the recruiting efforts of the coaching staff, and helps build long-term credibility in the portal and beyond.
If he lives up to expectations — and there’s every reason to believe he will — Bailey could go down as one of the most impactful transfer additions in Texas Tech history. His blend of talent, experience, and hunger is exactly what this program needs as it looks to make a real run in the Big 12 and beyond.
