Kaleb Bailey’s journey with the North Shore Mustangs has been one of triumph and resilience. He has moved from being a newcomer to being injured, to becoming a familiar face again, then being doubted.
“I just thank my Lord and savior for putting me in a position to be the underdog,” said Bailey. “He always brought me through things. I was sidelined due to injury my sophomore season; now I just have to go out and play my game, and everything else will fall in place.”
North Shore’s Kaleb Bailey (15) runs for a first down. Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
After a promising start to his sophomore season in 2022, Bailey’s rise was abruptly halted when he suffered a devastating ACL tear in a game against C.E. King. The injury, which occurred just five games into the 2022-2023 season, stunned the Mustangs’ fanbase and forced Bailey to watch from the sidelines as his team continued without him.
Despite the loss of their star quarterback, the Mustangs demonstrated remarkable tenacity, finishing the 6A Region III District 21 season undefeated and making it to the state championship game but would fall to Duncanville 28-21.
“Having to watch from the sidelines was building me mentally and physically,” said Bailey. “I just had to go out there and be a leader to my teammates and everybody else around me, by keeping high spirits.”
For Bailey, the injury was a turning point. Determined not to let it define his career, he embarked on a grueling rehabilitation process, working closely with trainer J.P. Tillman to rebuild his strength and agility.
Doubts circulated among recruiters and fans alike. Would Bailey ever return to his former self? Could he regain the elite pocket maneuverability that made him such a standout player?
North Shore’s Kaleb Bailey (15) celebrates after scoring a touchdown. Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
Bailey answered those questions with authority in his junior season. Not only did he return, but he did so with a vengeance. Bailey threw for 3,665 yards and 40 touchdowns, boasting an impressive 72.36% completion rate. He also showcased his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for 579 yards and 12 touchdowns. His leadership and performance propelled the Mustangs to yet another appearance in the 6A Division I UIL state championship game at AT&T Stadium. However, the Mustangs again lost to Duncanville 49-33.
“The only thing that was on my mind was to play my game. Go out there and play hard, fast, and physical,” said Bailey.
Known for his arm strength and ability to scramble while dissecting defenses, Bailey proved he could not only deliver the ball when needed but could outrun many opposing slower defenders on the field. His comeback season not only solidified his reputation as a top dual-threat quarterback but also as a player with a high football IQ and a no-quit attitude.
In North Shore’s recent quarterfinal victory over Atascocita, Bailey delivered an outstanding performance, rushing for 261 yards and passing for 202 yards. He contributed four touchdowns, with two through the air and two on the ground.
While some fans see him at the quarterback position, others believe his athleticism could see him thrive at another position on the collegiate level. Bailey, however, remains unfazed by the chatter. His Twitter bio boldly declares, “I love being the underdog; just makes me go harder,” a testament to his relentless drive and determination.
“I’m a quarterback. Most definitely, I’m a quarterback, but if they need me somewhere, I’m a dog, I’m an athlete, so I’m going to go out there and do what I have to do to get on the field,” said Bailey.
North Shore stands one game away from punching their ticket to the state game at AT&T Stadium. North Shore will take on Austin Westlake on Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at Legacy Stadium.
North Shore’s Kaleb Bailey (15) attempts a pass downfield. Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
About Kaleb Bailey:
Class: 2025
IG: @Roccouttkb
Twitter: @Unexpectedkb9
Position: Quarterback
Height & weight: 6-feet-2, 200 pounds
Favorite artist: VonOff1700
Status: uncommitted
Favorite subject: Reading
