Tennessee’s 2027 recruiting class keeps growing, and one of the biggest names in the group is already collecting hardware.
Derrick Baker, the Milton High School quarterback and Vols commit, was recognized by the Touchdown Club of Atlanta as one of the 36 players across the state of Georgia. Baker shared the honor on his X account and made it clear he’s not treating it like a finish line.
"Honored to be recognized by the Touchdown Club of Atlanta as one of the 36 players across the state of Georgia. Grateful for this moment, but even more excited for what’s ahead.
This is just the standard. Big congrats to my bro Grant Haviland for being honored as the only TE," Baker posted on his X account.
The recognition fits the way Baker’s been stacking up achievements this offseason. He won The Sevens 7-on-7 tournament, a strong showing for the Tennessee commit and a reminder that he can hold his own against a deep field of quarterbacks. Cameron Newton, the Auburn Tigers legend and former NFL star, coached him through that run.
He also took part in the Elite 11 Atlanta Regional at Buford High School, where he was steady throughout the day.
Baker has already flashed plenty since taking over as a starter at Milton, even after dealing with an injury last season. He finished the offseason strong and has opened the 2026 season on a good note as well.
Listed as a three-star prospect, Baker’s production suggests he’s playing at a higher level than that label implies. MaxPreps has him with nearly 350 passing yards in Georgia, which works out to an average of 175 passing yards across his first two games. Tennessee clearly has one of its top quarterback targets in the class, and Baker keeps giving the Vols plenty to like.
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