Mavs' Jeremiah Baker turns setbacks into opportunity

While playing a game of basketball with some friends during his junior year, a misstep while wearing boots resulted in a broken fifth metatarsal. Already frustrated with where he stood on the depth chart, this was when he considered quitting football altogether, he said.

After Jay convinced Baker to stick it out, he saw a spot to fill in the spring of his junior year as Kast was preparing to graduate and head to Eastern Oregon University to play football. He zeroed in on the role and went to work, he said.

"The coaches saw that and started trying to put me with varsity to see how that works out and honestly, I did very well," Baker said.

Jay's program emphasizes constant competition — Grind City. As Baker came up, the coaching staff always felt he was going to be next after Kast, Jay said.

"He got all his reps at that right guard spot, which helped him out a lot with his experience. He was very familiar with all the calls, all the footwork stuff and so he was able to get better," said Jay.

Mount Baker

One thing that worked to Baker's benefit was his size on the offensive line. According to Jay, he is 6'6 and 325 pounds. His presence earned him the nickname 'Mount Baker.'

Baker embraced this nickname as he earned his chance to start for the varsity Mavericks in September 2025.

"It finally clicked for me, and I got a whole lot better. The people by my side, Reese Porter and Payton (Phillips), really helped out. They were helpful in my success. They showed me what is right to do when I would ask questions," Baker said.

Baker recalled a practice where Jay pointed him out to the rest of the team and talked about the progress he'd made.

"It felt great. I'm actually doing what I wanted to do, not this JV ride along. No, I'm actually with the team now. I'm actually one of the key contributors, and that was just wonderful," said Baker.

Becoming a Gladiator

In November 2025, Jay approached Baker to gauge his interest in playing college football. He expressed an interest, so Jay connected him with PNWCC's program which is headed by Bill Templeton — Brett's former high school football coach.

"(Templeton) develops players and men, and so it's just a really good fit for Mount Baker, because his upside is through the roof. If he goes in and gets some more reps and continues to develop his skills, I really think he can go as far as he wants with this," Jay said.

Throughout the winter, Baker assessed his options and took a few visits. An additional factor that sold him on PNWCC was the opportunity they provided him to become more involved with his faith, he said. As he looks ahead to joining the team, he feels confident in his potential.

Coach Jay feels the same way.

"A guy like Mount Baker, who just didn't stop, was able to push through his adversity and didn't quit. Those are the kind of people you want to hire. They elevate programs, companies, all that good stuff and so he's got a spot with us forever," Jay said.

When asked to reflect on his journey, Baker took a sentimental approach to his answer.

"I think if 10-year-old me could look at me now, I think he would be very proud, or at least, like, 'Ooh, you're playing football. Wow, our mom actually allowed us to play football,'" he said.