22 offers, one decision: Brandon Hebert chooses Princeton

Brandon Hebert had plenty of options. The North Shore senior offensive tackle received 22 scholarship offers from programs across the country, including Harvard, Kansas State, Mississippi State, Houston, UTSA, and Oregon State. 

When it came time to choose his future, the 6-foot-7, 282-pound lineman committed to Princeton, believing the Ivy League school offered the best combination of elite academics, trusted relationships, and a pathway to life after football.

“Princeton gave me everything I was looking for,” said Hebert. “I wanted a place where I could compete at a high level, earn one of the best degrees in the world, and build relationships with coaches I genuinely trust. Football doesn’t last forever, so having a Princeton degree opens doors for the rest of my life.”

When Hebert narrowed his choices, relationships, academics, and long-term development were most important.

“I wanted to be somewhere that believed in me as a person, not just as a football player. I also wanted to know I’d leave school prepared for whatever comes after football,” said Hebert.

While his commitment made headlines, years of dedication in the classroom and on the field transformed Hebert into one of Texas’ most sought-after recruits. He didn’t just dominate between the lines; he also excelled academically, maintaining a 4.8 GPA.

“It takes discipline and time management and long nights to maintain such a rigorous GPA,” said Hebert. “I’ve always believed that if I’m going to do something, I’m going to give it my best effort. I stay organized, handle my work before I relax, and surround myself with people who hold me accountable.”

That same commitment to preparation and accountability has become the foundation of his success on the football field, where coaches see the same disciplined approach in every practice and game.

“Brandon’s size is the first thing people notice, but it’s not what makes him special,” said North Shore head football coach Willie Gaston. “What separates him is his athleticism, football IQ, and consistency. He moves like a much smaller player while maintaining the physicality you want from an offensive lineman. He’s coachable, plays with great technique, and competes every snap. Just as important, he’s a high-character young man who leads by example and makes everyone around him better.”

Those qualities don’t disappear when the lights come on Friday nights. According to Gaston, Hebert’s greatest strength is the consistency he brings every day, long before kickoff.

“Brandon is the same person whether coaches are watching or not,” said Gaston. “He puts in the extra work in the weight room, studies film, and is always looking for ways to improve. He doesn’t need someone pushing him because he’s internally motivated. His preparation and discipline are a big reason he’s become one of the top offensive linemen in the country.”

That combination of talent, discipline, and character quickly became evident to college recruiters, who saw Hebert as far more than just another highly rated offensive lineman.

“Brandon has elite physical tools, but he also brings maturity, character, intelligence, and a tremendous work ethic,” said Gaston. “College coaches know they’re getting someone who will represent their program the right way on and off the field. His ceiling is extremely high because he’s committed to continuous improvement.”

For Hebert, the challenge wasn’t finding a school; it was choosing the one that best aligned with the future he envisioned beyond football.

“Princeton has the complete package,” said Hebert. “The education is second to none, the coaching staff made me feel like family from the beginning, and they showed me a clear vision for my development both as a player and a person. I never felt like I was just another recruit there.”

Watching former Princeton offensive tackle Jalen Travis be selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft reinforced Hebert’s belief that he wouldn’t have to choose between earning a world-class education and pursuing an NFL career.

“Seeing Jalen Travis get drafted proved that if you’re willing to put in the work, Princeton can prepare you for both the NFL and success long after playing,” said Hebert.

While Princeton’s ability to produce NFL talent validated Hebert’s football aspirations, its unmatched academic reputation ultimately made the university impossible to pass up.

“A degree from Princeton is recognized everywhere,” said Hebert. “I wanted to challenge myself academically just like I challenge myself on the football field. Knowing I’d graduate with one of the best educations in the world made the decision even easier.”

While football has opened doors, Hebert knows the game won’t last forever. That reality played a major role in his college decision, and he plans to study mechanical engineering.

“I’ve always enjoyed figuring out how things work and solving problems, so mechanical engineering felt like the perfect fit,” said Hebert. “Preparing for life after football has always been important to me, and I wanted a degree that would give me opportunities no matter where life takes me.”

That mindset has shaped more than his college decision. It’s also the example he’s setting for the next generation of North Shore athletes.

“Brandon’s legacy will be about much more than football,” said Gaston. “He’ll be remembered as a leader who represented North Shore with class, humility, and toughness every day. He showed younger players what it looks like to prepare, compete, and put the team first. His impact will continue long after he graduates because of the standard he helped set for our program.”

While his size and talent earned him 22 scholarship offers, it was his perspective on life beyond the game that ultimately led him to Princeton.

“I hope young athletes understand that you don’t have to choose between academics and athletics,” said Hebert. “You can excel in both if you’re willing to put in the work. Stay disciplined, take school seriously, and don’t be afraid to chase goals that are bigger than football.”