Santa Ana (California) Mater Dei won the legendary MaxPreps High School National Championship last fall, thanks in part to a dominant offensive line full of FBS talent. Brandon Bakerthe best offensive projectile Top247 in 2024 highlighted this group.
Joining the Elite 2024 O-lineman DeAndre Carter, Baker and Mater Dei went 12-1 and finished 2nd in the national MaxPreps rankings. Baker placed himself in the right spot to tackle the ball, which was distinguished by his running conviction and passing athleticism.
Baker reported more than two dozen proposals, including Miami, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oregon, USC, and many more. Baker looks like a first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft Alia Vera-Taker by physical characteristics and style of play. Below is our updated scouting report on the outlook for elite offensive tackle.
247SPORTS SCOUT REPORT
An athletic striker who can go a long way on the sidelines. Has enough height, above average length and frame space to keep adding mass.
He plays crazy and it shows in the running game. A great blocking drive that aims to finish off the blocks to the ground. Demonstrates impressive lateral speed and range when you need to pull or reach targets at the second level.
Plays with constant foot movement, especially after turning on. The strength of the game is good and, combined with size, often overwhelms smaller, stronger defenders.
Pass-Pro reps promise to be natural and effective. Fairly light and good body control in passes. The position of the hands also shows consistency in passing repetitions.
Faces great competition in practice and often in games, although a high-profile program results in a lack of a preferred multi-sport profile and two-way experience. Hand placement stability and body control during play may improve. Regularly overwhelms defenders, but the force of the blow can be more consistent.
In his junior season, he appears to have established himself as one of the top offensive forward prospects in the class of 2024. Projects as a potential multi-year starter with a definitive ceiling that could lead to an early-round NFL Draft nomination.
Source: 247sports.com
