DALLAS — DeSoto’s Brandon Booker likes contact on the football field.

So it’s only fitting that he’s the anchor of the Eagles’ defense at linebacker, which is arguably the most physical position on the field. 

“I bring energy, I bring plays, effort and accountability,” Booker said. “I’m gonna give my 100% every time, and I hold myself accountable just like I hold everyone else.”

Booker is a three-year starter and two-time captain for DeSoto. His veteran leadership has the Eagles poised to make another state title run after winning the Class 6A, Division 2 crown last year.

“It was a great experience,” said Booker about the championship. “Not everybody can experience it, and it makes us want to get there again. Makes us work even harder.”

A three-star recruit, Booker had been verbally committed to Baylor and then Stanford. But earlier this month, he switched his commitment to stay close to home at SMU. 

“Everyone offers such great things, but then at the end of the day, you gotta come down with one decision,” Booker said. “I want to feel a connection between me and the staff and also with the players there, because if I don’t have that, then I won’t feel comfortable.”