5-star OT Brandon Baker signs with Texas Longhorns

Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei High five-star offensive tackle Brandon Baker has signed with Texas.

The 6-foot-5, 290-pounder chose the Longhorns over Ohio State and Nebraska in September and is now locked in with Texas’ top-five recruiting class.

“The trajectory they’re headed on for sure,” Baker told On3’s Hayes Fawcett when he committed. “The development by one of the best OL Coaches in the nation, and an offensive mind at head coach. Can’t really beat that, they’re headed in the SEC, and you cannot beat blocking for my guy Arch Manning! Life after football is incredible, and the opportunity is endless.”

His relationship with the coaching staff played and their plan for him played a key role in his decision as well.

“I’m closest with Coach Flood,” he added. “His plan for me is to be a key contributor to the team. Comparing me to Kelvin Banks and Jedrick Williams.”

Baker is the No. 25 player in the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the No. 2 offensive tackle and the No. 2 player in the state of California.

Brandon Baker Scouting Summary

On3’s Scouting and Rankings team writes this about him as a prospect:

“High floor offensive tackle who is battle tested against top competition while playing at one of the nation’s top high school programs. Measured in at 6-foot-4.5, 300 pounds as a rising senior. Has good length for the position with a 34-inch arm. Lines up at right tackle for powerhouse program Mater Dei. Technically advanced and proficient as a run blocker. Understands technique, angles and hand placement. Shows developed footwork as a puller when working to the second level.

… Keeps his feet moving and uses his size and strength to create a push. Further along as a run blocker than pass protector at this stage but has the ability to improve on that front. Has a tendency to lunge at times in pass protection. Not overly flashy from an athletic standpoint and can continue to improve his lower body flexibility. Projects as a steady, safe offensive tackle prospect who could potentially play multiple spots on an offensive line.”