The Lobos’ 2027 recruiting class is starting to take shape as the Albuquerque summer heat continues to melt away at the Lobo faithful — waiting patiently for fall camp to begin.
At the time of publication, the Lobos have eight total commits, five on defense and three on offense, including four newcomers who verbally committed last week.
Zade Brown, Defensive Line / Offensive Line
The Arizona native out of Valley Vista High School announced his commitment to UNM last Monday, June 8, on X. Brown, listed at 6-foot-4 250-pounds, attended one of UNM’s prospect camps on May 31, taking reps not only on defense but on the offensive line as well.
Brown racked up 60 total tackles and 12.5 tackles for loss during his junior season, earning 2nd Team All-Region and 1st Team All-District honors.
Brown praised not only Head Coach Jason Eck, but Offensive Line Coach Cody Booth for playing a vital part in his decision to play for the Lobos:
“The thing that really separated UNM from the other schools that recruited me was the coaching,” Brown said. “Coach Eck is a great coach that is going to continue to grow the program and make it better each year. Having Coach Booth as my OL coach was a big factor too. Ever since I met him he was excited to coach me and help me reach my main goal (of playing in) the NFL.”
The Lobos hosted Brown for an official visit on June 8, where he ultimately decided becoming a Lobo was the next chapter in his football journey.
“I knew UNM was the right place for me during the end of my visit,” Brown said. “I loved mainly everything about it from the facilities, to the campus and how the coaches, athletic trainers, professors, and staff treat and support the players. It is a great atmosphere to be in and it makes me very excited to spend this next chapter of my life at UNM.”
Collin Benninger, Tight End
Benninger, listed at 6-foot-5 and 220-pounds, rounds out New Mexico’s offensive recruits for 2027 to three, joining Hershul Olloway Jr. and Bradley Cassier. Benninger announced his commitment June 13 on X.
The 3-star recruit out of Central Catholic High School in Modesto, California, chose the Lobos amid offers from San Diego State, Nevada and UNLV. Benninger totaled 347 yards and 4 touchdowns on 21.6 yards per catch during his junior season.
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Benninger had no shortage of confidence and praise regarding his future playing tight end for the Lobos when reached for comment
“The development and usage of the tight ends (is important) through this offense,” Benninger said. “Multiple pro bowl and all-conference tight ends have thrived in this offense. UNM is the real ‘(Tight End University).’”
Lobo fans watched Dorian Thomas dominate weekly last season, and will find current tight ends Cade Keith and Tripp Walsh looking to do the same. Benninger looks to continue the run of productive tight ends at University Stadium, but key aspects in his decision to be a Lobo don’t always happen on the field.
“The people are the best in the 505,” said Benninger. “The players, support staff, coaches, and even just the people you meet in stores or restaurants. It feels like home and will be for the next couple of years.”
Dailon (DJ) Clanton, Linebacker
Clanton, a Mater Dei High School prospect out of Santa Ana, California, announced his commitment to New Mexico last Tuesday, June 9, on X.
On top of earning 2nd Team All-Trinity League honors, Clanton, listed at 6-foot-1, 210-pounds, recorded 63 total tackles, 2 sacks and 6 tackles for loss during his junior season.
Clanton chose New Mexico over seven different schools, including Arizona State, Utah, San Diego State, Oregon State and UNLV, and attributed his decision to UNM’s staff.
“What separated UNM from the other schools recruiting me was how genuine the coaches were and how comfortable I felt around the team,” Clanton said. “They made me feel like more than just a football player and showed they cared about me as a person.”
New Mexico continues to leave lasting impressions on the recruits during their visits to the program; Clanton committed to the program the same day he received an offer.
“I knew UNM was where I wanted to continue my football journey during my visit,” Clanton said. “Being around the coaches, players, and seeing the environment made it feel like home. After that, I could really see myself developing there both on and off the field.”
Tighe Williams, Defensive End
The 6-foot-2, 270-pound playmaker received an offer from New Mexico on April 27, and announced his commitment to the program May 30 on X.
Williams racked up 34 total tackles, 7 sacks and 7 tackles for loss during his junior season at Creekside High School in Fairburn, Georgia.
Profile Recruiting player rankings lists Williams as the 192th overall defensive end in the country and the 340th overall player in the state of Georgia.
Williams did not immediately respond to the Daily Lobo for comments regarding his commitment.
Edge Garcia is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @ByEdgeGarcia
