Brandon Baker is a complete Californian, and football has always been dear to his heart. His parents, Angela Blade and Willie Blade, played crucial roles in his persona and development as an ace football player. The support they provided him got him to where he is now and set him up for the rest of his pursuits.

Brandon Baker is a highly rated offensive tackle, known for his exceptional skills and promising future. Baker has committed to the Texas Longhorns, adding significant strength to their lineup. Hard work, determination, and the support of his family have marked his journey. 

Family support and early influences

His stepfather has played a significant role in his life. Former linebacker Willie Blade, who played for Mississippi State University and three different NFL teams, the Dallas Cowboys being one of them, has been a great inspiration. Also, his knowledge of the game has been a serious addition to the player’s development. “Having a stepfather who played at such a high level has been incredible. He’s taught me so much about the game and life,” Baker shared. Baker also has a younger brother, Armoni, and two sisters, Perry and Phoenix. The family is also compact and has been nurturing throughout the years, with every family member contributing to Baker’s change.

His parents have always supported him and participated in his games from the sidelines, especially during high school when he attended Mater Dei High School, a noted football team in California. Several key factors influenced Baker’s decision to commit to Texas. His connections, especially Kyle Flood, the offensive line coach of the Texas Longhorns, also helped a lot. Baker said he has a good relationship with Flood, “I have a really good relationship with coach (Kyle) Flood and when we talk, it means something. He’s a really good coach and he’s building a really strong offensive line,”​ Baker said.

The path to Texas: key influences and decisions

Further, Baker said other top programs, such as Oregon and Ohio State, were interested in his recruitment. His relationships with these schools and his brother’s going to Oregon created that competitive edge. However, he changed his mind after reasoning with the Texas football program, the staff, and the plans. His technical skills, football IQ, and physical attributes make him a standout player. Standing at 6-foot-4.5 and measuring 300 pounds of body mass, Baker is nearly unstoppable on the field. His arm length of 34 inches adds to his effectiveness as an offensive tackle, which supplements his role as an offensive tackle for run and pass plays.

That is why Baker’s strength of aggressively finishing blocks and his tendency to get to the second and third levels of defense is so valuable. He never slacks in a single play and proves he has the attributes of a possible future pillar in the Longhorn’s line of offense. From being a high school sensation to one of the key players for the Longhorns, it has not been a bed of roses for him, but his determination, ability, and the roots that his family has laid down did it for him. A bright future is ahead for this young, talented player in college football as he continues practicing and building up his experience.