A Look Into New Mexico’s Division I Football Recruiting Scene
As the 2025 New Mexico high school football season nears, the spotlight is burning brighter than ever on a wave of talented student-athletes turning college recruiters’ heads across the country. With several Division I offers and multiple early commitments already on the board. NMPreps breaks down the top names making waves on the trail.
Committed to the Big Time
Moses Sparks Jr. – Sue V. Cleveland High School – Class of 2026
Committed: University of Utah
NMPreps Rank: #2
The reigning number one offensive lineman in the state, Moses Sparks Jr., is heading to the Pac-12 after committing to Utah. At 6’5”, 275 lbs, Sparks has anchored the Cleveland offensive line and earned a reputation for physicality and discipline in the trenches. His combination of frame and mobility makes him a perfect fit for the Utes’ power-run system. Sparks’ commitment underscores Cleveland’s place as a consistent producer of Division I linemen.
Alex Rivera – Lovington High School – Class of 2026
Committed: Fresno State
NMPreps Rank: #3
New Mexico’s first commitment in the 2026 cycle came on June 11, 2025, when Alex Rivera, a 6-foot-4, 285+ pound offensive lineman, pledged to the Fresno State Bulldogs. Rivera, a key part of Lovington’s powerful front, combines raw strength with technical polish—traits that made him an early recruiting priority for the Mountain West program. With his commitment, Rivera becomes a foundational piece for Fresno State’s future and puts Lovington in the national spotlight for offensive line talent.
Hayes Baum – Cibola High School – Class of 2026
Committed: University of New Mexico
NMPreps Rank: #4
Cibola’s Hayes Baum will stay home after committing to the Lobos, joining a growing list of local prospects staying in-state. His size, athleticism, and ability to dominate from the edge made him one of the top defensive ends in the class. His commitment marks a key win for UNM as they aim to lock down elite in-state talent and revitalize their roster under a new staff. Related: Impactful Journeys: Hayes Baum Is Redefining Relentless at Cibola HS
Holding Major Offers: 2027 & 2028
Colton McKibben – Carlsbad High School – Class of 2027
NMPreps Rank: #1
The linebacker from Carlsbad is arguably the most sought-after New Mexico recruit in years. Colton McKibben holds offers from blue-blood programs including Michigan, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, along with Power 4 staples like Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, and Washington. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 215 pounds, McKibben has the frame, instincts, and sideline-to-sideline speed to be a difference-maker at the next level. Already entering his junior season, his offer sheet suggests his recruiting stock may only continue to rise.
Hershul Olloway Jr. – St. Pius X School – Class of 2027
NMPreps Rank: #5
After rushing for 1,704 yards and 21 touchdowns as a sophomore, Hershul Olloway Jr. earned his first Division I offer from UTEP and later added an in-state offer from UNM. The 2025 Class 4A state runner-up led St. Pius X with dominant performances that showcased his blend of power and quickness. He also added 3 receiving touchdowns, giving recruiters a look at his versatility. With two D-I offers already on the table, expect more eyes to follow Olloway’s junior campaign.
George Smith – Sandia High School (via Robertson) – Class of 2028
NMPreps Rank: #6
One of the youngest names to surface with Division I interest is George Smith, who recently received an offer from Colorado State University. Now at Sandia High School after transferring from Robertson, Smith plays multiple positions (RB/WR/Combo Guard) and is also a standout on the hardwood with college basketball interest. At 6’1”, 160 lbs, Smith’s athleticism and versatility make him a future two-sport star to watch. His early offer as a freshman is an indicator of elite potential and a rare occurrence in New Mexico recruiting circles.
The Big Picture
New Mexico continues to see its top athletes break into the national recruiting scene, especially among linemen and versatile skill players. The continued emergence of early offers and Power 4 attention marks a turning point for a state historically overlooked in the recruiting landscape.
With players like McKibben, Rivera, Sparks, and Olloway already showing the state’s depth and development, the 2026 and 2027 classes look poised to produce some top talent.
At NMPreps, we’ll continue to track every offer, every commitment, and every breakout star—because the Land of Enchantment is full of football talent, and the rest of the nation is finally paying attention.
Follow more recruiting updates and exclusive insights only at NMPreps.com — your source for New Mexico high school football.
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