NCAA Basketball: La Salle at North Carolina - Source: Imagn

"Next Tom Brady": CFB fans react as 4-star QB remains committed to UNC following the arrival of 7x Super Bowl winner Bill Belichick

Modified Dec 15, 2024 14:25 GMT

Four-star quarterback Bryce Baker has reaffirmed his commitment to the University of North Carolina, now under the leadership of seven-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick.

Baker, who initially pledged to the Tar Heels in June 2023, decided to stay loyal to the program after a pivotal phone conversation with the legendary coach.

During the call, Bill Belichick shared his vision of building a professional-style program, convincing Baker that UNC could shape him into an NFL-caliber player.

"Their experience in the NFL is huge," Baker told ESPN. "They've been on the level that I'm trying to get to. I feel like that separates them from a lot of other schools. They want to develop me, and they know the intricacies that will help me get to my goals. I feel like [Belichick] will bring in the right pieces to build around me. They're going to make me a priority."

Fans have begun speculating about Baker’s future, with some suggesting he could be “the next Tom Brady.” On social media, one fan cheered:

“Next chapter begins #GoHeels 🐏.”

While another remarked:

“Next Tom Brady.”

Here is how other fans expressed their reactions.

"He old asf and he’s not even that good," a fan quipped.

"If Belichick don’t do good year 1 hope y’all criticize him like y’all did Deion year 1 stay consistent 😂," another remarked.

"Yessir. Proud of you Bryce next season finna be exciting 🙌🏽," a fan posted.

"Congrats Bro!" a fan congratulated him.

In his senior season at East Forsyth High School in North Carolina, Baker lodged 3,523 yards with 40 touchdowns and only five interceptions. His completion rate stood at 74.8%, earning him a 145.3 passer rating. On the ground, he added 303 rushing yards and six touchdowns.

Although North Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class is currently ranked last among the 17 ACC teams by 247Sports, Baker’s commitment provides a much-needed boost.

Bryce Baker Solidifies UNC Future Amid Bill Belichick's Bold New Vision

Bryce Baker, since pledging to UNC in June 2023, has remained the top recruit in North Carolina’s 2025 class. However, he chose not to sign during the early signing period from Dec. 4-6, staying in contact with Penn State and LSU as the Tar Heels searched for a new coach.

That search concluded Wednesday with the hiring of NFL legend Bill Belichick, 72, on a five-year deal. The hiring immediately impacted recruiting, with Baker announcing plans to hold a signing ceremony on Wednesday and enroll at UNC in January.

With Baker’s commitment reaffirmed, defensive end Austin Alexander (No. 298) and in-state running back Demon June remain the Tar Heels’ last unsigned 2025 recruits. Bill Belichick’s arrival also influenced offensive linemen Austin Blaske and Aidan Banfield to withdraw from the transfer portal following the coaching announcement.