Class of 2026 three-star offensive tackle Edward Baker was pursued by many schools throughout his recruitment, but he has now made his commitment decision. On Friday, Baker announced his pledge to Tennessee.
Baker took his official visit to Knoxville from June 6 through June 8. He also took official visits to his other four finalists: Virginia (April 25 through April 27), Arkansas (May 30 through June 1), North Carolina State (June 13 through June 15) and Mississippi (June 20 through June 22).
Ultimately, the Saint Frances Academy (Baltimore, Maryland) standout chose to play for head coach Josh Heupel, offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle, offensive line coach Glen Elarbee and the rest of the Volunteers’ staff.
“Tennessee is somewhere I know I can get development and get the exposure to play against the best of the best,” Baker told Rivals.com about his commitment to the Vols.
Baker has been building strong connections with Heupel, Elarbee and the other Tennessee coaches for more than a year. Those relationships played a large role in his decision to commit to the Volunteers.
“My relationship (with the Tennessee coaches) is great,” Baker said. “We’ve been talking since the opening (communication) period for the 2026 class (in June of 2024).”
During his official visit to UT earlier this month, Baker was able to connect with the staff, eat good food and get out of his comfort zone to explore new excursions.
“We went tube riding on the boat — I was a little scared because I can’t swim, but the life jacket saved me,” Baker said with a laugh. “Smokey’s (Sports Grill) is the best food spot.”
In addition to the schools already mentioned, Baker received scholarship offers from Alabama, Auburn, Boston College, Florida, Maryland, Miami (FL.), Pittsburgh, Syracuse, UCF, Virginia Tech and others.
While the 6-foot-4, 315-pound Baker is listed as a tackle and can certainly play outside, he also has the flexibility to play in the interior as well.
“(I can play) a little of both (outside and inside) — I’m a versatile offensive lineman that can do it all,” Baker said about his playing style.
With Baker’s commitment, Tennessee’s 2026 class grows to 11 total pledges as of press time. The Volunteers rank 35th nationally.