The “Who Is 85” Campaign: Tr0n Baker’s Journey Through Football, Film, and NIL

Tr0n has a saying that is already catching attention. “Three things in life are certain, death, taxes, and 85 gon’ be open.” He says it is a nod to legendary wide receiver Chad Johnson, whose personality and confidence helped redefine what it meant to be a star at the position.

His football roots remain just as important. Baker previously shared the field with standout receiver Makai Lemon, and that experience continues to influence his development. Being around high level talent has sharpened his approach both competitively and mentally as he transitions into this next phase of his career at USC.

“I’m not just a football player. That might sound cliché, but it’s the truth. Yes, we sleep, eat, and breathe football, but a lot of us also enjoy video games, music, and entertainment.”

Off the field, Baker is embracing the full college experience. He is energized by campus life, building relationships, and diving headfirst into learning the business side of sports. NIL is no longer just a concept for him. It is a real time classroom where he is studying brand strategy, partnerships, and how to maximize his platform in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.

“I’ve learned how to market yourself in ways that put you in a positive light, whether it’s through community work or helping others. People want to see you play, but they also want to connect with you beyond the field. That’s one of the biggest things I’ve learned during my time at USC.”

At the center of it all is family. Baker speaks openly about the role his mother plays in his journey. Her support is not just background motivation. It is foundational. In an environment that can often feel transactional, that grounding allows him to move with clarity and purpose.

“My mom is a big motivation for me. She pushes me and challenges me to go harder. I had a catch that went viral, and she commented saying I was out of bounds. That’s just the type of relationship we have.”

There is a certain confidence in how Baker is approaching this moment. It is not loud or forced, but intentional. He is not waiting to be discovered. He is introducing himself on his own terms.

So who is 85? Right now, he is a freshman finding his rhythm at USC, a creator experimenting with new ways to tell stories, a student of the NIL era, and a son fueled by support that runs deeper than the spotlight. If the early signs are any indication, the question will not last much longer. It will turn into recognition.