UTRGV NSD 2024 UTRGV Football First Signing Class in School History Tradition Starts Here #WinToday

Football

Football Adds 41 Vaqueros for 2024

RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) head football coach Travis Bush announced on Wednesday the addition of 41 Vaqueros for the first roster in program history, giving UTRGV 51 student-athletes, including the 10 who signed on Dec. 20.
 
UTRGV is expected to add more student-athletes in the coming weeks. Additionally, UTRGV will host tryouts for enrolled UTRGV students in August. More information about tryouts will be available closer to the event.
 
This is UTRGV's first regular signing period, setting up the team to hold a practice season in 2024 before ramping up for their first season of NCAA Division I FCS competition in 2025.
 
UTRGV will practice on the grass and turf fields being constructed at the site of the Vaqueros Performance Center.
 
All the 51 student-athletes on the roster come from Texas high schools, including six from the Rio Grande Valley. Additionally, 50 of the 51 student-athletes are freshman. UTRGV has one transfer – Ian Box from Lamar, a fellow member of NCAA Division I FCS. Box previously played for Bush and defensive line coach Nate Langford at Seguin High School.
 
2024 UTRGV Football Roster as of Feb. 7, 2024
Name POS HT WT YR Hometown Last School
Jorge Alvarado DE 6-2 220 Fr. Laredo, Texas John B. Alexander HS
Ja'Marcus Anderson DE 6-2 240 Fr. Houston, Texas Dickinson HS
Sergio Aparicio QB 5-10 165 Fr. Pharr, Texas PSJA North HS
Caleb Blocker RB 5-9 190 Fr. Katy, Texas Katy Tompkins HS
Mehkhi Blue OL 6-6 275 Fr. Harlingen, Texas Marine Military Academy
Ian Box OLB 6-3 230 R-So. Seguin, Texas Lamar University
Trey Bright LB 6-2 225 Fr. Mont Belvieu, Texas Barbers Hill HS
Zion Brown QB 6-0 181 Fr. Atascocita, Texas Atascocita HS
Brennan Carroll RB 5-8 170 Fr. San Antonio, Texas Roosevelt HS
Atzel Chavez Jr. QB 6-1 170 Fr. Laredo, Texas United HS
Tristan Compton LS 6-1 235 Fr. Hutto, Texas Hutto HS
Kayden Cooper DB 6-1 185 Fr. Houston, Texas New Caney HS
TJ Dement RB 5-8 180 Fr. Boerne, Texas Boerne HS
Tony Diaz WR 5-11 175 Fr. San Marcos, Texas San Marcos HS
Danny Garcia DL 6-1 275 Fr. Pharr, Texas PSJA North HS
Dante Garcia OL 6-2 280 Fr. Pharr, Texas PSJA North HS
Landen Gaskamp LB 6-0 215 Fr. Mont Belvieu, Texas Barbers Hill HS
Cameron Glenn WR 6-2 170 Fr. Humble, Texas Atascocita HS
Jose Gonzalez-Vargas OL 6-2 260 Fr. Laredo, Texas United HS
Mateo Grajeda TE 6-4 235 Fr. El Paso, Texas Coronado HS
Jaiden Haygood LB 6-0 195 Fr. Converse, Texas Judson HS
Roman Hernandez OL 6-7 275 Fr. El Paso, Texas Eastlake HS
Nick Hughes OL 6-4 275 Fr. San Antonio, Texas Central Catholic HS
Aidan Jackobsohn QB 6-0 150 Fr. Ingleside, Texas Ingleside HS
Brenden Jones OL 6-6 300 Fr. San Marcos, Texas San Marcos HS
Jaylan Jones DL 6-1 265 Fr. Cibolo, Texas Byron P. Steele II HS
Nathan Luschen TE 6-4 220 Fr. Cuero, Texas Cuero HS
Jaxson Maynard LB 6-2 230 Fr. Bulverde, Texas Smithson Valley HS
Dakories Moment DB 5-10 170 Fr. Fort Worth, Texas Brewer HS
Gunner Naivar WR 6-0 165 Fr. Converse, Texas Prestonwood Christian Academy
Oscar Nnanna DB 6-10 170 Fr. Cypress, Texas Bridgeland HS
Boone Partee K 5-11 165 Fr. New Braunfels, Texas New Braunfels HS
Nicholas Peace DB 5-11 170 Fr. Texas City, Texas Dickinson HS
Jamal Polley RB 5-8 170 Fr. Edinburg, Texas Robert Vela HS
Alijah Prosser DB 5-10 160 Fr. Manor, Texas Manor HS
William Rogalinski P 5-11 220 Fr. San Antonio, Texas Sandra Day O'Connor HS
Jaxson Shupe ATH 6-2 190 Fr. Edinburg, Texas Robert Vela HS
Aidan Smith LB 6-2 215 Fr. New Braunfels, Texas Canyon HS
Tyler Staton DN 6-4 220 Fr. Lockhart, Texas Lockhart HS
Juan'Yae Taylor ATH 5-10 175 Fr. San Antonio, Texas Wagner HS
DaCorien Thompson DN 6-1 250 Fr. Crowley, Texas North Crowley HS
Luke Valdez WR 6-2 190 Fr. San Antonio, Texas Sandra Day O'Connor HS
Joe Derek Vecchio OL 6-2 284 Fr. Pharr, Texas PSJA North HS
Jayven Villasenor DB 5-11 175 Fr. Laredo, Texas United HS
Cah'lil Ward DB 5-10 175 Fr. League City, Texas Clear Creek HS
Caleb Warren LB 6-3 235 Fr. Lake Jackson, Texas Brazoswood HS
Shane Werner DB 5-11 170 Fr. Round Rock, Texas Stony Point HS
Nolan White DB 6-0 180 Fr. Port Arthur, Texas Port Arthur Memorial HS
Jarius Williams DB 6-3 190 Fr. League City, Texas Clear Springs HS
Jaden Wincher DE 6-3 240 Fr. Pearland, Texas Pearland HS
Blake Zeller OL 6-5 280 Fr. New Braunfels, Texas Canyon HS
 
"To be able to sit here and be able to name so many young men that want to be a part of this program is phenomenal," Bush said. "We're happy about the number of young men that are already signed up to be a part of this program and the quality of student-athletes that are in this signing class. This goes back to the quality of coaches we've been able to get down here and our administration, the people who plan and have done this before. The facilities and the plans are another big piece that allowed high-quality young men to want to be part of the first signing class in program history."
 
Jorge Alvarado            DE       6-2       220      Fr.        Laredo, Texas              John B. Alexander HS
2020-23 (John B. Alexander High School): As a senior, recorded 86 tackles (51 solo), including 29 for a loss, 10 sacks, 68 quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles, and seven passes defended for head coach Edwin Garcia … Earned First Team All-State, All-South Texas High School Defensive Player of the Tear, District 30-6A Most Outstanding Defensive End, Laredo Morning Times Defensive MVP, KGNS Telemundo Deportes Defensive MVP, Team MVP, and Academic All-State Honorable Mention while serving as team captain … For career, finished with 146 tackles (82 solo), including 48.5 for a loss, 18.0 sacks, 80 quarterback hurries, four forced fumbles, eight passes defended and one interception.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the vision the coaches have for the program and the desire to make history both with the new program and as one of three student-athletes from Laredo high schools on the inaugural roster … Intends to major in international business … Hobbies include fishing, golfing, hunting, and being with family.
 

Ja'Marcus Anderson            DE       6-2       240      Fr.       Houston, Texas         Dickinson HS
2020-23 (Dickinson High School): Posted 134 tackles (54 solo), including 20 for a loss, 14.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and one interception for head coach John Snelson … As a senior, earned District 24-6A Defensive Player of the Year, First Team All-District, First Team All-Galveston County, and Second Team All-Greater Houston honors while serving as team captain … As a junior, earned Second Team All-District and Honorable Mention All-Galveston County honors.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he believes in the vision of the program and relishes the opportunity to make history … Related to Vernon Glover Jr., who plays at TCU, and Marquis Johnson, who plays at Missouri ... Intends to major in psychology … Hobbies include working out, playing video games, and playing basketball.
 

Sergio "Ale" Aparicio             QB       5-10     165      Fr.        Pharr, Texas   PSJA North HS
2020-23 (PSJA North High School): Recorded 14 passing touchdowns on 1,048 yards and five rushing touchdowns on 384 yards for head coach Marcus Kauffman … Honored as District 15-5A Co-MVP as a senior … Named All-Valley Sports Awards Football Player of the Year and District 15-5A MVP as a junior … Earned District Newcomer of the Year as a freshman.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the opportunity to give back to those who have supported him his whole life … Intends to major in exercise science … Hobbies include working out and listening to music.
 

Caleb Blocker            RB       5-9       190      Fr.       Katy, Texas                Katy Tompkins HS
2020-23 (Katy High School): Scored 50 touchdowns on 515 carries while rushing for 3,728 yards in career under head coach Todd McVey … Unanimous First Team All-District Running Back, Offensive Player of the Year, Second Team All-Greater Houston Area Running Back, and team captain as a senior after rushing for 1,561 yards on 205 carries and scoring 17 touchdowns … Second Team All-District Running Back as a junior after rushing for 1,150 yards on 150 carries and scoring 13 touchdowns … As a sophomore, rushed for 1,017 yards on 160 carries while scoring 13 touchdowns … Served on the school's leadership council.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the coaches are welcoming, he wants to grow as a football player, and he wants to be a part of history … Uncle, Mark Anderson, played in Super Bowls with the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots as part of 7-year NFL career after playing collegiately at Alabama … Cousin, Rodney Anderson, was a legendary running back at Oklahoma and then played with the Cincinnati Bengals … Cousin, Ryder Anderson, is currently a member of the New York Giants after playing collegiately at Ole Miss and Indiana … Cousin, Nic Anderson, is the Oklahoma record holder for touchdowns as a freshman wide receiver … Intends to major in kinesiology … Hobbies include playing video games, lifting weights, and hanging out with friends.
 

Mehkhi Blue  OL       6-6       275      Fr.       Harlingen, Texas       Marine Military Academy
2020-23 (Marine Military Academy): First student-athlete from a Rio Grande Valley high school to officially sign with the Vaqueros after playing under head coach Jim Morton … Three-time offensive lineman of the year … No. 29 ranked player and a top five offensive lineman in Texas Private School Football … Earned Player of the Game honors from Rio Sports Live for efforts in 43-0 win over Rio Hondo on Oct. 20, 2023 … Also competed in basketball and track & field.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the coaches and the environment … Planning to major in business management and marketing … Hobbies include playing video games.
 

Ian Box           OLB     6-3       230      R-So.   Seguin, Texas             Lamar University/Seguin HS
2024 (Redshirt Sophomore): First transfer player in program history.
 
2023 (Redshirt Freshman, Lamar): Missed the season due to injury.
 
2022 (Freshman, Lamar): Redshirted the season.
 
2018-21 (Seguin High School): Earned District 12-5A Defensive MVP honors … Named to the 2021 KSAT BGC Elite 12 list … Recorded 165 total tackles in 31 games over his three seasons on varsity, including 110 solo stops … Among his 165 tackles, 55.5 were for losses, including 24 as a sophomore … Was also credited with 20.5 sacks for more than 100 yards in losses during his career … Played for UTRGV head coach Travis Bush, then the head coach at Seguin, and defensive line coach Nate Langord, then the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator, as a sophomore and junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the incredible opportunity to be a part of football history at UTRGV and play for Coach Bush again … Intends to major in computer science … Hobbies include football, volleyball, lifting and fishing.
 

Trey Bright    LB       6-2       225      Fr.       Mont Belvieu, Texas             Barbers Hill HS
2020-23 (Barbers Hill High School): Finished career with 223 tackles and 7.0 sacks for head coach Carl Abseck … Second Team All-State and First Team All-District honoree as a senior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he likes the idea of being one of the first players on a new team … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include working out and hunting.
 

Zion Brown    QB      6-0       181      Fr.       Atascocita, Texas                 Atascocita HS
2020-23 (Atascocita High School): Recorded 8,115-career passing yards for a school record-tying 83 touchdowns while adding 30 rushing touchdowns on 2,070 rushing yards … As a senior, earned District Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All-District honors by posting 3,210 passing yards for 37 touchdowns and 2,070 rushing yards for 30 touchdowns … Burst onto the scene as a sophomore in 2021, earning Newcomer of the Year honors under head coach Craig Stump … Named homecoming king as a senior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the amazing love from the region and the coaches … Son of Mia and Wilbert Brown … Has two sisters, Zoe and Zaire … Father played three seasons in the NFL, winning the Super Bowl with the New England Patriots in 2003 while also playing with the Los Angeles Chargers, then in San Diego (1999), and Washington Commanders (2002) … Dad played Division I FBS football at Houston … Uncle Jeremiah Trotter is in the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame … Uncle Cornelius Anthony, currently the head coach at Hightower High School, played for the San Francisco 49ers after playing Division I FBS football at Texas A&M … Intends to major in business management … Active in community, giving out food to the homeless on Thanksgiving.
 

Brennan Carroll        RB       5-8       165      Fr.       San Antonio, Texas  Roosevelt HS
2020-23 (Roosevelt High School): Recorded 4,293-career rushing yards while scoring 52 touchdowns … Rushed for school record 2,253 yards, the most in Texas 6A and an average of 8.28 yards per carry, while scoring 27 touchdowns (26 rushing) en route to First Team All-District honors as a senior … Earned 2021 District Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors as a sophomore … Member of National Honor Society.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV due to his strong connection with the coaches and the beauty of the Valley … Son of Dawn and Matt Carroll … Father is head coach at Roosevelt and played running back at Hardin-Simmons … Brother, Bryson, played Division I FBS football from 2017-21 at New Mexico, became a GA at New Mexico, and now coaches football, basketball and track & field at Huffines Middle School in Lewisville … Intends to major in kinesiology … Hobbies include working out, swimming, and video games.
 

Atzel Chavez Jr.        QB      6-1       170      Fr.       Laredo, Texas           Laredo United HS
2020-23 (Laredo United High School): In four years on the varsity team under head coach David Sanchez, Chavez recorded 7,735 total yards, including 6,939 passing and 780 rushing yards, for 99 touchdowns, including 78 passing touchdowns on 502 completions plus 21 rushing touchdowns … Posted 366 punting yards on 30 punts, including a career-best punt of 56 yards … As a senior, was nominated for Texas High School Football 6A Quarterback of the Year while earning District Offensive MVP, First Team All-District Punter, Laredo Morning Times All-City Overall MVP, Laredo Morning Times First Team All-City Punter, Texas High School Coaches Association All-State Academic Honorable Mention, Second Team Academic All-District Rio Sports Live Player of the Game (week 5) and KGNS Player of the Week (week 3) honors … Finalist for the 2023 Dave Campbell's Texas Football Super Team and runner-up for 2023 South Texas Sports Live Midseason MVP … Semifinalist for Mr. Texas Football … As a junior, earned unanimous District Offensive MVP, Laredo Morning Times All-City Offensive MVP, KGNS TV Offensive MVP and Second Team Academic All-District honors while being names a finalist for the 2022 Dave Campbell's Texas Football Super Team … As a sophomore, earned unanimous All-District First Team Quarterback, Laredo Morning Times Second Team All-City Quarterback and Week 7 KGNS TV/Telemundo Laredo High School Football Player of the Week honors while being named a finalist for the 2021 Dave Campbell's Texas Football Super Team.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he's from the 956, making it feel like home … Also appreciates the vision the coaching staff has for the program … Son of Anna Rodriguez and Atzel and Jessica Chavez … Has two sisters, Anel and Anasofia … Intends to major in exercise science … Hobbies include golfing, bowling, fishing, running, playing video games, and cooking … Active in community service, organizing the inaugural "Socks Not Sacks" sock drive in coordination with United High School, the United Way of Laredo, and Bethany House of Laredo in December 2022, collecting 465 pairs of donated socks to benefit a local homeless shelter during the winter … A follow up drive is planned for January 2024 … Collected and donated peanut butter jars in support of the Very Bold Ministries Peanut Butter Bowl in 2022 and 2023 … Participated in the packaging and distribution of Thanksgiving dinners to families in need within Webb County in collaboration with the non-profit Emergency Assistance Team. 
 

Tristan Compton       LS       6-1       235      Fr.       Hutto, Texas              Hutto HS
2020-23 (Hutton High School): Led kickers to going 140 for 143 on point after attempts, three game-winning field goals, and 51 punts, none of which were blocked, under his father, head coach Will Compton … Two-time All-District Long Snapper … Academic All-District honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he enjoys the Valley and loves the campus … Intends to major in kinesiology … Hobbies include hunting, fishing, and working on cars.
 

Kayden Cooper         DB       6-1       185      Fr.       Houston, Texas         New Caney HS
2020-23 (New Caney High School): As a senior, recorded 32 tackles (27 solo), including two for a loss, for head coach Mike DeWitt … Finished career with 104 tackles (73 solo), including four for a loss … Two-time First Team All-District honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he loves the atmosphere … Related to Jalon Edwards-Cooper, who played collegiately for Texas A&M-Commerce and is now a defensive back with the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League … Intends to major in marine biology … Hobbies include sports.
 

Thomas (TJ) Dement            RB       5-8       180      Fr.       Boerne, Texas           Boerne HS
2020-23 (Boerne High School): Finished career with 2,715 rushing yards for 32 touchdowns under head coach Che Hendrix … Led team to 2022 state championship game … District Offensive MVP … First Team All-District Utility Player … First Team Academic All-State … San Antonio All-Star.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the great coaching staff as well as the hype and energy surrounding the new team … Intends to major in athletic training or physical therapy … Hobbies include golf, working out, cooking, eating, and video games.
 

Tony Diaz       WR      5-11     175      Fr.       San Marcos, Texas               San Marcos HS
2020-23 (San Marcos High School): Finished career with 2,216 yards while making 95 catches and scoring 29 touchdowns for head coach John Walsh … Also recorded 15 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one defensive touchdown and one punt return … Earned First Team All-District Wide Receiver and Second Team All-District Defensive Back honors.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the environment and the coaching staff … Intends to major in athletic training … Hobbies include listening to music and hanging out with friends.
 

Danny Garcia             DL       6-1       275      Fr.       Pharr, Texas              PSJA North HS
2020-23 (PSJA North High School): As a senior, totaled 107 tackles (55 solo), including 22.0 for a loss, 5.0 sacks, and five hurries for head coach Marcus Kauffman … Recorded 129 tackles (70 solo), including 28.0 for a loss, 5.5 sacks, and 21 hurries en route to The Monitor's All-Area Co-Football Lineman of the Year honors while leading his team to the Region IV-5A DI Championship Game as a junior … Also competed in track & field … Member of National Honor Society.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of proximity to family and friends as well as awesome opportunities for education … Teammates with twin brother, Dante … Intends to major in interdisciplinary studies … Hobbies include fishing, hunting, and going to the gym.
 

Dante Garcia             OL       6-2       280      Fr.       Pharr, Texas              PSJA North HS
2020-23 (PSJA North High School): Earned All-State honors as a junior for head coach Marcus Kauffman … Three-time First Team All-District honoree … Recorded 60 tackles (25 solo), including 8.0 for a loss, plus 3.0 sacks as a senior … Posted 131 pancake blocks as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the proximity to home … Teammates with twin brother, Danny … Intends to major in criminal justice … Hobbies include fishing, hunting, football, and cooking.
 

Landen Gaskamp     LB       6-0       215      Fr.       Mont Belvieu, Texas Barbers Hill HS
2020-23 (Barbers Hill High School): Earned First Team All-State and All-District Defensive MVP honors as a senior … Finished career with 291 tackles, including 20 for a loss, 4.0 sacks, two interceptions, including one pick six, one punt block, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery for head coach Carl Asbeck.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the vision that Coach Bush has for the future and the excitement in the Rio Grande Valley for UTRGV football … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include hanging out with friends, playing golf, and hunting.
 

Cameron Glenn         WR      6-2       170      Fr.       Humble, Texas          Atascocita HS
2020-23 (Atascocita High School): Scored 13 touchdowns as part of 47 catches for 1,044 yards under head coach Craig Stump … Second Team All-District honoree as a senior … All-District Honorable Mention as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the great coaching staff, vision of the football program, and nice campus … Intends to major in mechanical engineering … Hobbies include fishing, traveling, other sports, video games, and playing instruments.
 

Jose Gonzalez-Vargas         OL       6-2       260      Fr.       Laredo, Texas           United HS
2020-23 (United High School): Never allowed a sack in career under head coach David Sanchez … Earned District 30-6A Most Outstanding Lineman and First Team All-City honors as a senior … First Team All-District honoree during final two seasons … Recognized as a Padilla Poll All-State Offensive Lineman as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the culture being built around the program, the opportunity to be a part of the first class in program history, and the proximity to Laredo, where he went to high school … Originally from Monterrey, Mexico … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include gaming, working out and listening to music.
 

Mateo Grajeda           TE       6-4       235      Fr.       El Paso, Texas          Coronado HS
2020-23 (Coronado High School): Three-time All-District and three-time Academic All-District honoree for head coach Michael Pry … In three years at varsity level, recorded 55 receptions for 624 yards and four touchdowns … As a senior, made 10 catches for 101 yards and one touchdown … As a junior, posted 26 receptions for 252 yards and three touchdowns … As a sophomore, made 19 catches for 271 yards … Made 15 tackles (11 solo) between sophomore and senior years.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the people, the campus, and everything the Valley has to offer … Intends to major in mechanical engineering … Hobbies include working out, playing video games, and hanging out with friends.
 

Jaiden Haygood        LB       6-0       195      Fr.       Converse, Texas                   Judson HS
2020-23 (Judson High School): As a senior, recorded 88 tackles (62 solo), including 7.0 for a loss, 3.0 sacks and three hurries en route to First Team All-District honors … As a junior, posted 101 total tackles (65 solo), including 11.0 for a loss, 1.0 sack, two hurries, one fumble recovery, and one blocked punt … Totaled 270 tackles and 8.0 sacks in career for head coach Mark Soto.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV to be a part of history and build something special … Cousin, DeMarvin Leal, plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers … Intended major in undecided … Hobbies include playing video games, working out and listening to music.
 

Roman Hernandez    OL       6-7       275      Fr.       El Paso, Texas                      Eastlake HS
2020-23 (Eastlake High School): Only allowed one sack in varsity career … Represented Eastlake in High School All-Star Game as a senior … Earned All-District honorable mention as a junior while playing for head coach Rueben Rodriguez.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because it gives him an opportunity to set a standard at a new program while taking a year to build up to be competitive in Division I football … Son of Mayra and Ramon Hernandez … Has two sisters, Angelica and Alexa, and one brother, Ramon Jr. … Intends to major in criminal justice … Hobbies include working out, hanging out with friends and playing video games.
 

Nick Hughes              OL       6-4       275      Fr.       San Antonio, Texas  Central Catholic HS
2020-23 (Central Catholic High School): Didn't allow a sack in three years as a varsity starter while averaging a 95% game grade under head coaches William Goodloe and the late Mike Santiago … Two-time Second Team All-State honoree … Two-time First Team All-District honoree … Recorded 18 total tackles (16 solo) in nine games as a senior … Selected for 2023 San Antonio All-Star Game … Posted nine total tackles (six solo) in seven games as a junior … Member of National Honor Society.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he believes he can help build this program into a dominant team … The strength of a UTRGV education sparked his interest as well … Son of Karin and Frank Hughes … Intends to major in mechanical engineering … Hobbies include fishing, going to the gym, and hanging out with family and friends.
 

Aidan Jackobsohn   QB      6-0       150      Fr.       Ingleside, Texas        Ingleside HS
2020-23 (Ingleside High School): Offensively, passed for 7,711 yards and 112 touchdowns while rushing for 591 yards and eight touchdowns for head coach Travis Chrisman … Also recorded 48 tackles, including three for a loss, while snaring seven interceptions and posting six punts for 269 yards … Three-time First Team All-District Quarterback, two-time First Team All-South Texas, District MVP, Offensive Newcomer of the Year, All-South Texas Utility Player of the Year, 4A Built Ford Tough Offensive Player of the Year, 4A Dave Campbell's Quarterback of the Year, and Academic All-State honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the great support from the coaching staff and the new facilities being built … Intends to major in engineering … Hobbies include playing Madden, going to the beach, and watching TV with family.
 

Brenden Jones          OL       6-6       300      Fr.       San Marcos, Texas   San Marcos HS
2020-23 (San Marcos High School): Didn't allow a sack throughout career for head coach John Walsh.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because it felt like home and he likes the coaches and the community … Brother, Nicholas, plays football at Minnesota State Community and Technical College … Intends to major in health … Hobbies include music.
 

Jaylan Jones DL       6-1       265      Fr.       Cibolo, Texas             Byron P. Steele II HS
2020-23 (Byron P. Steele II High School): As a senior, totaled 64 tackles (28 solo), including nine for a loss, 7.0 sacks and 26 hurries en route to First Team All-District honors … In 27 games across three varsity seasons, recorded 108 tackles (44 solo), including 22 for a loss, 11.0 sacks and 42 hurries for head coach David Saenz.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because it felt like a good fit … Intends to major in athletic training … Hobbies include football and track.
 

Nathan Luschen        TE       6-4       220      Fr.       Cuero, Texas             Cuero HS
2020-23 (Cuero High School): As a tight end, recorded 600-career receiving yards on 36 receptions, including six touchdowns with two successful 2-point conversions … As a defensive lineman, posted two sacks and 15 tackles … Earned All-State, All-Area, and All-District honors under head coach Jerod Fikac … As a senior, recorded 17 receptions for 206 yards and two touchdowns.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he can tell that the coaches and staff at UTRGV are fired up to start something incredible and he is excited to contribute to the culture of the program … Son of Stephanie and Ron Luschen … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include playing basketball, hunting, and watching football.
 

Jaxson Maynard       LB       6-2       230      Fr.       Bulverde, Texas        Smithson Valley HS
2020-23 (Smithson Valley High School): Posted 233-career tackles between linebacker and defensive lineman for head coach Larry Hill … Led team to state championship game as a senior … Two-time First Team All-District, one-time Second Team All-District, and three-time Academic All-District honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because it feels like home and he loves the community and coaches … Intends to major in civil engineering … Hobbies include golfing, fishing, and working out.
 

Dakories Moment     DB       5-10     170      Fr.       Fort Worth, Texas                 Brewer HS
2020-23 (Brewer High School): Three-time All-District honoree for head coach Jason Wheeler … As a senior in 2023, recorded 34 total tackles (29 solo), including 4.0 for a loss, along with one sack, one interception, and one fumble recovery.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of his love for the coaching staff … Intends to major in kinesiology … Hobbies include working out, going fishing, and spending time with family.
 

Gunner Naivar WR      6-0       165      Fr.        Dallas, Texas   Prestonwood Christian Academy
2020-23 (Prestonwood Christian Academy): As a senior, recorded 861 yards and nine touchdowns on 52 receptions for head coach Donnie Yantis … First Team All-State, First Team All-District and TAPPS Receive of the Year finalist as a senior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the opportunity to be a part of something great as a member of the first signing class … Son of Michelle and Craig Naivar … Father is defensive coordinator at Coastal Carolina … Has one sister, Jordan … Intends to major in marketing … Hobbies include bible study, video games and working out.
 

Oscar Nnanna             DB       5-10     170      Fr.        Cypress, Texas          Bridgeland HS
2020-23 (Bridgeland High School): Finished career with 2,158 yards and 18 touchdowns on 147 catches plus two interceptions and one kickoff return for a touchdown under head coach Lonnie Madison … Earned First Team All-District Wide Receiver and Comeback Player of the Year honors as a senior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the people, the opportunity to make history, the academics, the development program, and the opportunity to play the sport he loves in the state he loves … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include music, fashion, and skateboarding.



Boone Partee K         5-11     165      Fr.        New Braunfels, Texas            New Braunfels HS
2020-23 (New Braunfels High School): Finished career with 3,746 kickoff yards on 67 kicks, an average of 55.9 yards per kickoff, for head coach Glen Mangold … Kicked 10 field goals in 13 attempts while converting 48 point after attempts in 50 tries … As a senior, earned Special Teams MVP, Second Team All-District, San Antonio Sports All-Star Kicker and Kohls 4-Star honors.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the incredible opportunity to be part of the inaugural football team, the amazing coaching staff, and the solid education … Intends to major in engineering … Hobbies include fishing, photography, playing video games, enjoying live music, practicing the pole vault, hanging out at the beach, and playing with his Labradors.
 

Nicholas Peace         DB       5-11     170      Fr.       Texas City, Texas     Dickinson HS
2020-23 (Dickinson High School): First player to commit to playing football at UTRGV in program history … Earned Second Team All-District honors as a senior … Three-year letterwinner … Played for coach John Snelson, the president of the Texas High School Coaches Association.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV for a strong education and because it's a good opportunity to make history … He also loves the campus and all it has to offer … Son of Latrecia and Thomas Peace … Has two brothers, Brylan and Travien … Intends to major in physical therapy.
 

Jamal Polley              RB       5-8       170      Fr.       Edinburg, Texas        Robert Vela HS
2020-23 (Robert Vela High School): As a senior, rushed for 1,964 yards on 210 carries, an average of 9.4 yards per carry, while scoring 31 touchdowns for head coach John Campbell … Also caught seven passes for 107 yards and one touchdown … Earned RGVSports.com All-Valley Co-MVP and Offensive Player of the Year recognition as well as District 15-5A Co-MVP, Whataburger Super Team, and Mr. Texas Football Week 3 honors … Rushed for 1,402 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the great academic program, the proximity to home, and the vision and passion of the coaches … Intends to major in business or criminal justice … Hobbies include playing football, spending time with family and friends, and training.
 

Alijah Prosser           DB       5-10     160      Fr.       Manor, Texas             Manor HS
2020-23 (Manor High School): Totaled 100 tackles (60 solo), including nine for a loss, two interceptions (one touchdown), 2.0 sacks, four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery for head coach James Keller … Two-time Second Team All-District honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the relationship he built with defensive backs coach Adrian McDonald … Comes from impressive football lineage, as he's related to Al Matthews, who played for the Green Bay Packers from 1970-75, the Seattle Seahawks in 1976, and the San Francisco 49ers in 1977, Chris Prosser, who lettered at USC from 2000-01, Kareem Larrimore, who played for the Dallas Cowboys from 2000-01, Korey Washington, who lettered at North Texas from 2006-07, Mike Washington, a Texas Lutheran Hall of Famer who led his team to three-straight national championships from 1974-76, and Jimmie Rose, who set numerous receiving records from 1992-93 and is in the Hall of Fame at Baker University … Intends to major in civil engineering … Hobbies include working out, watching football, and spending time with family.
 

William Rogalinski           P          5-11      220       Fr.        San Antonio, Texas          Sandra Day O'Connor HS
2020-23 (Sandra Day O'Connor High School): Two-time First Team All-District honoree … Recorded a 40-yard punting average for head coach David Malesky.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of his love of the community … Intends to major in biology … Hobbies include hunting, working out, fishing, and hanging out with friends.
 

Jaxson Shupe            ATH     6-2       190      Fr.        Edinburg, Texas         Robert Vela HS
2020-23 (Robert Vela High School): Earned First Team All-District Wide Receiver, Second Team All-District Cornerback, Whataburger Super Team and 2words Scholar Athlete of the Year (Texas) honors as a senior under head coach John Campbell … Earned First Team All-District tight end honors as a junior … For his career, scored nine touchdowns on 927 receiving yards while posting 13 tackles and one interception … As a senior, caught 27 passes for 388 yards and four touchdowns to go with 12 tackles and one interception … As a junior, caught 18 passes for 467 yards and five touchdowns.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the chance to make history and make the Valley proud … Intends to major in physical therapy … Hobbies include playing video games and working out.
 

Aidan Smith               LB       6-2       215      Fr.       New Braunfels, Texas          Canyon HS
2020-23 (Canyon High School): Finished career with 110 total tackles (41 solo), including eight for a loss, 2.0 sacks, nine quarterback pressures, three passes defended, and one interception for head coaches Nate Leonard (2023) and Travis Bush (2021-22), who is now the head coach at UTRGV … Earned All-State, All-District and Academic All-District honors … Member of National Honor Society.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV for the great opportunity … Son of Sheldon and Natasha Smith … Has one brother, Tristan, a linebacker at Texas Lutheran … Intends to major in biology … Hobbies include playing video games and chess.
 

Tyler Staton               DN       6-4       220      Fr.       Lockhart, Texas        Lockhart HS
2020-23 (Lockhart High School): Made five catches for 49 yards while posting an 89% blocking rate and recording 12 knockdowns, nine pancake blocks, 10 sacks, 60 tackles, and two deflections for head coach Todd Moebes … Two-time All-District Defensive End.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he wants to be a part of something great and thinks UTRGV will be an amazing program for years to come … Intends to major in education … Hobbies include playing video games and basketball.
 

Juan'Yae Taylor        ATH    5-10     175      Fr.       San Antonio, Texas  Wagner HS
2020-23 (Wagner High School): Two-time All-District Running Back and an Academic All-District honoree under head coach Jason Starin … As a senior, rushed for 729 yards on 50 carries, an average of 14.58 yards per carry, while scoring 10 touchdowns … Rushed for 100+ yards three times and posted a season-best rush of 78 yards … Member of student council.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he sees UTRGV as a place where he can make a name for himself and let people know about him … Son of Brandy Johnson … Has one sister, Kanisha … Intends to major in mechanical engineering … Hobbies include playing other sports and working out.
 

DaCorien Thompson  DN       6-1       250      Fr.        Crowley, Texas           North Crowley HS
2020-23 (Clear Creek High School): Ranked No. 74 2024 Texas defensive lineman by TX Top Talent … Recorded 110 total tackles, 11.0 sacks, seven passes defended, four fumble recoveries, and one caused fumble during career under coach Ray Gates … As a senior, posted 43 total tackles (35 solo), including 14.0 tackles for a loss, 4.0 sacks, 22 hurries, three passes defended, and four fumble recoveries en route to District Co-Defensive MVP honors … Two-time first team All-District honoree.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he wants to play against good teams and be part of a program that will allow him to see more of the country beyond where he grew up … Son of Jayonna and Donald Thompson Jr. … Has four siblings, Donald, Dayden, Dilynn and Dallas … Donald is a defensive tackle at Prairie View A&M … Major is undecided … Hobbies include spending time with friends, playing games, and watching movies.
 

Luke Valdez     WR      6-2       190      Fr.        Helotes, Texas             Sandra Day O'Connor HS
2020-23 (Sandra Day O'Connor High School): As a senior, received for 1,119 yards on 62 catches while scoring eight touchdowns for head coach James Malesky … Finished career with 1,505 yards on 91 receptions, including 11 touchdowns … Earned First Team All-District and Academic All-State honors … Also a First Team All-District honoree in baseball.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he has family in the Valley and he wants to part of this new program while helping to build it up … Son of 2015 RGV Sports Hall of Fame inductee Nati Valdez, who graduated from Mission High School and played collegiately at BYU from 1989-92 … Intends to major in finance … Hobbies include bike racing.
 

Joe Derek Vecchio   OL       6-2       284      Fr.       Pharr, Texas              PSJA North HS
2020-23 (PSJA North High School): Recorded 94 pancake blocks as a senior en route to SB Live Top Offensive Lineman in Texas, RGVSports.com All-Area Lineman of the Year, Dave Campbell's All-State, First Team All-South Texas, and District 15 5A Offensive Line MVP honors for head coach Marcus Kauffman … Posted 65 pancake blocks en route to First Team All-Area and All-District Center and RGVSports.com All-Valley honors while leading his team to the Region IV-5A DI Championship Game and earning the team leadership spirit award as a junior … Earned Second Team All-District Center honors as a sophomore and All-District Honorable Mention recognition as a freshman.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he sees the vision and loves the energy and philosophy of the coaching staff … Intends to major in business marketing … Hobbies include collecting vinyl records, going to the gym, boxing, collecting fragrances, and anything related to music.
 

Jayven Villasenor     DB       5-11     175      Fr.       Laredo, Texas           United HS
2020-23 (United High School): As a senior, recorded 117 tackles (83 solo), one interception, one blocked punt, one blocked field goal, and five passes defended en route to District 30-6A Defensive MVP, Third Team All-State Defensive Back, and First Team All-City Safety honors for head coach David Sanchez … Earned Academic All-State honors as a senior and Academic All-District honors as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the coaching staff and the environment … Son of Amy Mills-Villasenor, a four-time track & field All-American at Tarleton State, and Jesus Villasenor, who played football at Tarleton State … Great Uncle, Ron Mills, was inducted into the Texas High School Coaches Hal of Fame … Intends to major in criminal justice … Hobbies include fishing, fly fishing, hunting, and football.
 

Cah'lil Ward               DB       5-10     175      Fr.       League City, Texas   Clear Creek HS
2020-23 (Clear Creek High School): As a three-year starter for coach Dwayne Lane, recorded 217 tackles, 9 interceptions, four forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, four defensive touchdowns and two kickoff return touchdowns … Two-time First Team All-District Safety while also earning Second Team All-District Kickoff/Punt Returner honors … As a senior, served as team captain and recorded 75 tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery en route to unanimous First Team All-District and Team Defensive MVP honors … Also competed in track & field … Member of National Honor Society.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV for the opportunity to make history in the Valley … Also found the Valley to feel like home and wants to surround himself with people who want to work hard, which is what he discovered at UTRGV … Son of Neisha and Clarence Ward … Father played Division I FBS football at UTEP and currently coaches at Clear Springs High School … Has one sister, Chloe, and one brother, Caden … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include gaming, hunting, fishing, riding horses, and watching football.
 

Caleb Warren LB       6-3       125      Fr.       Lake Jackson, Texas            Brazoswood HS
2020-23 (Brazoswood High School): Totaled 156 tackles (75 solo), including 27 for a loss, one safety, two interceptions, 9.0 sacks, 12 pancake blocks, and 36 quarterback hurries for head coach Joe Dale Cary … Two-time Second Team All-District Linebacker … Earned First Team All-County and Team Defensive MVP honors as a senior … Earned Second Team All-County and the team linebacker award as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he loves the coaches and what they're trying to build … Intends to major in mechanical engineering … Hobbies include fishing, hunting, going to the beach, and working.
 

Shane Werner           DB       5-11     170      Fr.       Round Rock, Texas  Stony Point HS
2020-23 (Stony Point High School): Finished career with 13 receptions, four touchdowns, five interceptions, 100 tackles, and 309 return yards for head coach Craig Chessher … As a senior, recorded 31 tackles (21 solo), two interceptions for 34 yards, and 259 return yards en route to All-Area and All-District honors.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of a desire to make history with a new program, his relationship with the coaches, and the proximity to home … Cousin, Cameron Cook, plays at TCU … Intends to major in kinesiology … Hobbies include reselling sneakers and detailing.
 

Nolan White   DB       6-0       180      Fr.       Port Arthur, Texas    Port Arthur Memorial HS
2020-23 (Port Arthur Memorial High School): Finished career with 21 interceptions for head coach Brian Morgan.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because it felt like home the moment he stepped on campus … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include working out.
 

Jarius Williams         DB       6-3       190      Fr.       League City, Texas   Clear Springs HS
2020-23 (Clear Springs High School): Finished career with 1,125 yards on 60 catches for eight touchdowns along with three interceptions, one forced fumble, and 22 tackles for head coach Anthony Renfro … As a senior, posted 650 yards on 38 receptions for three touchdowns while also recording three kick returns for 186 yards, including one touchdown, 20 tackles, and three interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns, en route to First Team All-District honors … Earned Second Team All-District honors as a junior.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because he thought it was his best option to be great and he wants to be a part of history … Son of Jared Williams, who played at Texas Tech … Uncle, Jermain Anderson, played at Texas … Uncle, Wilton McCray, played at SMU … Cousin, Vernon Glover, plays at TCU … Intends to major in athletic training … Hobbies include playing and working out with his siblings.
 

Jaden Wincher          DE       6-3       240      Fr.       Pearland, Texas        Pearland HS
2020-23 (Pearland High School): Three-time All-District Defensive Lineman selection for head coach BJ Gotte … Finished career with 103 tackles, including 15 for a loss, 11.0 sacks, five forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, one interception, one pick six, and 16 quarterback hurries.
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of the great environment and culture … Father played at UTEP … Intends to major in business marketing … Hobbies include lifting weights and playing video games.
 

Blake Zeller               OL       6-5       280      Fr.       New Braunfels, Texas          Canyon HS
2020-23 (Canyon High School): Earned 2023 5A DI Padilla Poll All-State Second Team honors as a senior under head coach Nate Leonard … Played two seasons for UTRGV head coach Travis Bush (2021-22).
 
Personal: Chose UTRGV because of Coach Bush and his staff … Intends to major in business … Hobbies include working out and playing video games.
 

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