Blue-chip ACC-committed QB receives Gators offer, considers fall official visit
Billy Napier and Co. are still searching for a blue-chip quarterback in the 2025 cycle and may have found their answer in a highly-coveted prospect committed to an ACC school that has remained open to other suitors ahead of his final decision.
Four-star passer Bryce Baker out of Kernersville (North Carolina) East Forsyth is currently committed to one of his in-state schools: the North Carolina Tar Heels. However, it appears that the 6-foot-2.5-inch, 200-pound signal-caller might be having second thoughts about his verbal pledge.
The Florida Gators have had an eye on Baker for a while and recently jumped into the race for the rising senior’s talents, offering him a scholarship while also entertaining the idea of an official visit this fall.
On Florida’s scholarship offer to Baker
“They went through my Elite 11 film, and I think that really pushed me over the edge to get the offer,” Baker told Swamp247.
“They told me they thought I’ve had a really good spring and summer. I know they’ve been looking at film, because I haven’t really been on any campuses or done many camps past Elite 11. So a lot of their scouting on me has been through film, and building a relationship with them through phone calls,” he continued.
“The offer actually happened two nights ago (Sunday) when talking with Coach (Ryan) O’Hara. He called me and offered me.”
Talking with Ryan O’Hara and Billy Napier
“We’ve had about two calls so far. I’ve been able to talk with both Coach O’Hara and Coach (Billy) Napier. I feel like our conversations have been transparent,” Baker comments.
“It’s been pretty good. I’m being honest with them about where I am, and where my commitment level is with UNC. They’re being honest with me about how things are going. It’s been good that they understand my situation and aren’t pushing or rushing me to anything. I would say it’s really been transparent which is good.”
What interests Baker most at Florida
“Florida has a history of developing quarterbacks. Two names that stick out to me that they spoke about to me is Tim Tebow and Anthony Richardson, with him being the more recent one. I know how the history there, and their history of development. I know it looks like a good atmosphere there, and a good opportunity for quarterbacks to be developed.”
On playing in the SEC
“I’m sure they have good coaching and things, but regarding me, they’ve talked about being able to play in the SEC. They feel like that’s the best competition to prepare you for the next level more than coaching ability. They feel like that have that, but playing against the best is good for your development too.”
“They like my mentality on and off the field, and how I’m able to balance my personal life and be the best I can be on the field. Along with that, they like my ability to lead others. I guess they’ve heard that from talking with other people. Then on film, I think my accuracy is something that has stuck out to them. That and my build.”
Baker’s current commitment status with UNC
“My commitment isn’t closed, and I explained that to them. But also in my (offer) post that’s how I feel now. Still 100-percent to Carolina. Unless something changes, I know everything happens for a reason. I’m really in the present with it, and not really rushing anything.”
“I’m not counting them out altogether, because this is a really big opportunity to play at Florida. At the same time, like I said in my post, still 100 percent locked in with Carolina.”
Baker’s outlook for Florida moving forward
“Maybe an OV in the season,” he said. “That would make more sense to me. I know that last weekend when it opens in July, I believe I have something going on with family. If not, I haven’t decided on that date yet.
“It’s possible, but for me, during their season to actually see a game too, is more interesting to me to see. We don’t have any dates or anything set though.”
Recruiting Summary
Baker is ranked No. 244 overall and No. 20 at his position nationally according to the 247Sports composite while the On3 industry ranking has him at Nos. 267 and 21, respectively.
