Tennessee QB commit Derrick Baker proving doubters wrong with latest camp performance

One of the more underrated pieces of Tennessee’s 2027 class is three-star quarterback commit Derrick Baker, who missed most of his junior season with a hand injury. Despite that, he has still picked up some big-time offers throughout the recruiting process. Ohio State, Miami, and Indiana have all offered the Milton High School product, and in-state powerhouse Georgia even tried to flip his commitment from the Vols this spring.

Tennessee missed on talented 4-star EDGE right before scheduled official visit

However, after a big visit in Knoxville a couple of weeks ago, Baker has remained firm in his commitment to the Vols and is now focused on finishing out his senior season. He is widely considered a player who could rise in the recruiting rankings this fall.

The first step to climbing the rankings is strong camp and 7v7 performance, and Baker is already making noise. Rivals named him one of the top performers on Day 1 at the Overtime 7v7 Finals over the weekend.

Tennessee QB commit Derrick Baker is showing out

I’ll put this in the category of things you love to see. For the last six months, we’ve been told how good Baker is, and this is further reinforcement of that. Showing out on a big stage like this is no small feat. The event is filled with four-star prospects and future NFL Draft picks, so for Baker to stand out as a top performer is proof that Tennessee has a diamond in the rough. It certainly wouldn't be a shock to see him move up with a full senior season under his belt.

What makes Baker such a big addition is how perfectly he fits the Tennessee offense. He isn’t the biggest quarterback by any means at just 6-foot-1, but he plays with an edge and toughness. He has a big-time arm that can make all the throws, whether it’s to the flat or driving the ball downfield. Baker is also a good athlete who runs like a power running back behind his pads. The dual-threat ability he brings is exactly what a modern offense needs, especially Tennessee’s.

Not to mention, with Faizon Brandon or George MacIntyre presumably vying for the Tennessee job this fall, Baker will have time to develop and learn behind them. He isn’t going to be rushed into a situation that isn’t beneficial for his growth. Heupel and Joey Halzle have shown they can put quarterbacks in advantageous positions to develop properly.

All in all, I’m glad to see Baker delivering on the big stage, and hopefully, he can carry this into his senior year.

If you're a Vols fan, buy stock in Baker now before its too late.

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