Texas continues to build recruiting pipeline to California power Mater Dei High School
Texas landed On3 Industry Ranking five-star Brandon Baker today at a ceremony in California. The 6-foot-4.5, 300-pounder is the On3 Industry Ranking’s No. 1 offensive tackle in the Class of 2024.
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Baker’s commitment continues a trend of Texas coaches building a recruiting pipeline to the strongest high school football programs in the country. With so many members of the Longhorn staff deeply familiar with the program, Southern California region, and the entire Golden State, it’s no wonder Steve Sarkisian is working to plant a flag at the home of the Monarchs. Add that current UT wide receivers coach Chris Jackson is a Mater Dei grad, and Texas has a number of longstanding connections to tap into.
Texas added Mater Dei grad Spencer Shannon and one-time Monarch Brady Sarkisian in the 2023 cycle, and now have Baker set to sign in 2024. The Horns are also recruiting Deandre Carter, an Auburn offensive line pledge. They’re also in a great position with junior talents, Jordon Davison and Marcus Harris.
Here’s a look at Texas’ recruiting efforts at the Santa Ana, Calif. program since 2019.
Past
2019 Bru McCoy
McCoy was part of one of the craziest recruitments ever, signing and enrolling at USC, transferring to Texas, transferring back to USC, and eventually hitting the portal one more time to go to Tennessee.
Before then, Texas and Mater Dei rarely crossed paths. But these days with Sarkisian’s ties, and other assistants with California connections like Jeff Banks and Pete Kwiatkowski, the Longhorns are pursuing some of the best from the program.
2023 Spencer Shannon
Shannon, a member of Texas’ 2023 class, has yet to appear in a game.
Present
2024 Brandon Baker
Baker chose Texas over Oregon, Nebraska, and Ohio State.
2024 Deandre Carter
Carter committed to Auburn on September 3 but the Longhorns remain in heavy pursuit.
Future
2025 Jordon Davison
2025 Marcus Harris
2025 Daryus Dixson
2026 Shaun Scott
2026 Kayden Dixon-Wyatt
All these prospects have offers from Texas. The Horns will continue to mine the school typically stocked full with college and NFL talent.
