Arizona Loses Top Recruit DE Elijah Rushing, Ranks No. 20 in ESPN 300

Breaking: ESPN 300 defensive end Elijah Rushing has decommitted from Arizona, dealing a blow to their 2024 recruiting class.

Rushing, ranked as the No. 20 prospect overall, was Arizona’s highest-ranked commit in years. Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing 235 pounds, Rushing hails from Tucson, Arizona and was expected to be the hometown hero.

Rushing had previously cited his proximity to home as a significant factor in his decision to commit to Arizona.

“I sensed that they were heading in the right direction,” Rushing stated in July when announcing his commitment. “That mattered to me, especially as a hometown guy. It has some unique perks, and having my brother [freshman safety Cruz Rushing] there is a bonus.”

However, Rushing recently took to X, formerly Twitter, to express a change of heart. He said, “While I appreciate the progress and growth of the program, I have to prioritize my future goals.”

Rushing explained that he decided to reopen his recruitment as he no longer considers Arizona the right fit for his continued development.

With a 3-3 record and a tough triple overtime loss to USC, Arizona is facing a challenging season.

Prior to his commitment to Arizona, Oregon was also in the running for Rushing’s recruitment. He visited the school in June and they are now back in the picture.

Rushing’s decommitment has opened the floodgates, and other schools are expected to join the race for his recruitment.

Following Rushing’s decommitment, Arizona’s only remaining ESPN 300 commitment is quarterback Demond Williams Jr. They also have a four-star prospect, running back Jordan Washington.