Texas Longhorns offensive lineman could be 2025’s biggest gamble – boom or bust potentially awaits
Brandon Baker may be the biggest question mark in Texas’ 2025 offensive line overhaul. The former five-star prospect has the size, pedigree, and raw talent you need to help anchor the offensive line. But, as a young player stepping in for a former starter on a CFP semifinal, Joe Moore finalist nominated group, the margin […]
Brandon Baker may be the biggest question mark in Texas’ 2025 offensive line overhaul. The former five-star prospect has the size, pedigree, and raw talent you need to help anchor the offensive line. But, as a young player stepping in for a former starter on a CFP semifinal, Joe Moore finalist nominated group, the margin for error is going to be incredibly thin in 2025.
The Longhorns are facing a seismic shift on their offensive line for 2025. With four of five starters moving on to the NFL – including first-round standout Kelvin Banks Jr. and notable contributors Cameron Williams and Jake Majors – the unit now hinges on new faces stepping up in a high-pressure spotlight.
Despite the turnover, coaches remain optimistic. Veterans like D.J. Campbell and Cole Hutson bring stability, while evolving talents like Trevor Goosby, a breakout candidate, and sophomore Brandon Baker hold significant upside. The potential is real – but can they deliver? This Texas OL is shaping up to be the season’s most compelling “boom or bust” storyline.
If Brandon Baker develops quickly, the Longhorns line could be among the SEC’s best.
CBS Sports’ Brad Crawford put together his list of 25 players in college football who have “boom or bust” potential. Baker comes in at No. 4.
“A former five-star recruit, Baker is expected to hold the right tackle spot over as the Longhorns replace early NFL Draft exits Kelvin Banks Jr. and Cameron Williams on the edges of the offensive line,” Crawford said. “It’s a huge ask for Baker in protecting Arch Manning and he’s one of four new starters up front for the Longhorns, whose lone returning veteran is senior guard DJ Campbell.”
If Baker can boom and develop into a phenomenal right tackle who can protect Arch Manning and pave the way for a talented running back room, Texas can win it all. But, if he busts, protection for Manning and the run game could take a serious hit.
Boom or bust, Baker’s trajectory could possibly define Texas’ offensive identity in 2025. Every mistake gets magnified when you’re a starter for the No. 1 team in the country and you’re tasked with protecting arguably the most-hyped college football player of this generation.
The 6-foot-5, 285 pound Brandon Baker has all the makings of a SEC tackle.
The former Mater Dei (Calif.) standout has an elite frame and athleticism. Scouts love his pass protection upside and power in the run game. And coming from an elite high school program and now being projected as a starter for the Longhorns, one has to assume his football IQ is high.
But, the boom or bust hinges on his footwork being developed and consistent in pass sets. His frame has matured as the weight room has treated him well but he must continue to work on his pad level when engaged in the run game with the physical defensive linemen in the SEC.
If he can put it all together, Baker has a legitimate shot at being a first-round NFL Draft pick. It just all depends on how quickly he can adapt to the speed of the game as he is now being asked to be a dude.
