Millis/Hopedale Class of 2014 two-way lineman Jon Baker verbally committed to Boston College this afternoon, during an unofficial visit to the Chestnut Hill campus.
The Eagles first offered the 6-foot-3, 305-pound Baker last spring. Baker also had offers from Michigan State, Rutgers, Temple, UConn, UMass, Harvard, Yale, Old Dominion and Holy Cross.
Baker is considered one of the top prospects in New England, and projects as a center for BC. In 2012, his junior season, he registered 78 tackles with four sacks at defensive tackle to earn a spot on ESPNBoston.com's annual All-State Team. He also earned Tri-Valley League Lineman of the Year honors for the second straight year, as the Mohawks made their second straight MIAA Division 4 playoff appearance.
"It's always been probably my top school, and the time just felt right," Baker said. "Beside the fact it's close to home and I love the new coaches, it's a great school, which is something I really look forward to.
BC has been Baker's top choice, but M-H head coach Dale Olmsted admitted surprise by how quickly the commitment came about.
"It came outta nowhere, usually recruiting heats up at this time of year," Olmsted said. "To be honest with you, it came about this morning. Our guys were working out at St. Cyr Academy, Jon woke up and said 'Coach, I want to commit today'. He didn't even tell his mother."
Baker met with Eagles head coach Steve Addazio this afternoon in his office, and after a 20-minute talk gave him a commitment on the spot.
"I like the energy and passion he brings, but also the fact he's an o-line guy, who will be working over there with coach [Justin] Frye," Baker said. "They're going to make us all better players."