Alabama Wide Receiver Javon Baker Transfers to Kentucky
Will Levis has a new pass-catching weapon for the 2022 season. Wide receiver Javon Baker will transfer from Alabama to the University of Kentucky, he announced through his Instagram. Baker committed to UK following visits to Lexington, Florida and Ole Miss.
A 6-foot-1, 196-pound athlete from Powder Springs, Ga., Baker was a four-star prospect and a top 200 player in the 2020 recruiting class. Rivals ranked Baker as the No. 20 wide receiver in America when he signed with the Crimson Tide. Thanks to the COVID-19 eligibility waiver, he can spend three seasons with the Wildcats in Lexington.
In two seasons at Alabama, he caught nine passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. As a true freshman, Baker played in the final nine games of the season, filling the void left by the injured Jaylen Waddle. Similarly, he played significant minutes in the CFB Playoff after John Metchie was injured in the SEC Championship Game. In addition to his SEC Championships, he also has one National Title under his belt, one he celebrated in style.
What Javon Baker Brings to UK
A year after UK got the best wide receiver available in the portal, they’ve done it again with Javon Baker. Like Wan’Dale Robinson, Baker is bringing high-level athleticism to Lexington, but he makes plays in a different way than Wan’Dale.
Baker gives Kentucky a vertical threat through the air, something that’s consistently been absent from the offense. Not only can he get behind opposing cornerbacks, but he can also make plays over the top too. Baker is not typecast as a jump ball receiver, but he can high-point the football and make contested catches. If you need evidence of his incredible leaping ability, see how he warmed up for the National Title.
Mark Stoops has made a concerted effort to improve the wide receiver position through recruiting. The young talents are still growing. With Josh Ali and Wan’Dale Robinson departing, Kentucky must replace more than 60% of its production from the wide receiver room. Instead of leaning on underclassmen, the Wildcats have found seasoned power five athletes to fill the void, with Tayvion Robinson playing out of the slot and Baker catching passes from Levis on the outside.
Kentucky’s goal is to play for an SEC Championship. They can make it to Atlanta after bringing in somebody that’s been there before.
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