Arizona State rival loses five-star recruit

TEMPE, Ariz. — Arizona State’s biggest rival Arizona just lost their best recruit in football program history. Five-star defensive end prospect Elijah Rushing announced his de-commitment from the Wildcats on Sunday. Rushing is from Tucson and plays for Salpointe Catholic High School.

Recruitment open again pic.twitter.com/mXQGJtdT9s

— Elijah Rushing (@elijah_rushing) October 9, 2023

Arizona State rival Arizona loses five-star pledge

Rushing released a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter) when announcing his recruitment was open, and that he no longer intended to play for Arizona in college. Here’s what the Tucson native had to say.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the coaches and staff at the University of Arizona for the opportunity to be a Wildcat. As a hometown kid, my desire was to rep my city while becoming the best version of myself. I have taken into consideration the recent progress and strides the program has made. Although it is evident that the program is on the rise, I have to consider my future goal. I have come to the conclusion that the program is not the right fit for me to take the next step with regard to my development. I am, therefore, decommitting from the program,” Rushing wrote.

According to 247 Sports, Rushing is the eighth-best overall player in the country in the 2024 class and the best prospect in Arizona.

Should Arizona State football pursue Rushing?

Rushing’s de-commitment is a devastating blow to Arizona. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Arizona State. The best player in the state is back on the board, and Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham should be heavily involved.

The five-star holds 37 scholarship offers, including one from Arizona State. He will no doubt be highly sought after and can go anywhere in the country. However, Dillingham would be foolish not to pursue Rushing. The Arizona native showed in his original commitment that he’s not afraid to stay in the state.

It’s a long shot, but I think Dillingham and the Devils should at least try.

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