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Former top recruit Malachi Nelson is in the transfer portal, and he’s set his first official visit. The signal caller could make history with the program he intends to see should he ultimately choose to commit.
Nelson signed with USC in the class of 2023, looking to potentially take over following the NFL exit of starter Caleb Williams.
Instead, he’s opted to end his time in Los Angeles and play elsewhere. An early favorite has already emerged to land his services.
It might be a surprising one, too, given his unanimous five-star status. Nelson was listed by every recruiting site as a Top 5 signal quarterback, and ESPN went as far as to name him the No. 1 player in the nation.
He appeared on his way to becoming Lincoln Riley’s next great passer, but plans have changed. Following his transfer decision, he’s now set his first official visit.
Pete Thamel reports that Nelson is headed to Boise State in the coming days.
Sources: Quarterback Malachi Nelson, the former No. 1 ESPN overall recruit from 2023, will take an official visit to Boise State in the upcoming days. Nelson transferred out of USC after one season, and Boise will mark his first official visit. pic.twitter.com/oD8wWVqYca
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 4, 2024
The Broncos have quickly become the favorite in his recruitment for a number of different reasons.
Most notably, Nelson says he wants to play for a “blue-collar program where he can blend in and prove himself while growing up with a strong team.”
Boise State certainly provides that given its success at the Group of Five level (reigning MWC champs) and the production returning in 2024.
He also has a family member that currently lives in Boise, according to Thamel, which could provide some sense of comfort in a potential transition from California, as well as a previous relationship with Broncos offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan.
If he does choose to sign with Boise State, he’d immediately become the top-rated prospect in program history!
Malachi Nelson spurns Miami with Boise State visit
Though inexperienced (three career pass attempts), he’s gained national interest given that prior five-star status. One of the programs showing interest was Miami.
Source: Miami has engaged with both USC transfer Malachi Nelson and Arkansas transfer KJ Jefferson as they begin to pursue other quarterbacks in the the portal and keep all options open. https://t.co/Fs67kE7yrs
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 1, 2024
After missing on Washington State transfer Cam Ward, who ultimately declared for the NFL Draft, the Hurricanes reportedly reached out to both Nelson and Arkansas transfer KJ Jefferson.
Jefferson has since committed to Central Florida, and it now looks like the other option is already off the table, too.
Many have been quick to comment on the news, taking an opportunity to mock ‘The U’ over another potential swing and miss.
“If Malachi Nelson picks BOISE ST over Miami, The U is officially dead.”
“Miami lost out on Cam Ward, KJ Jefferson, and now their last resort Malachi Nelson LOL.”
“No portal QB wants Miami.”
The Hurricanes might have to go another direction in its quarterback pursuits if they intend to add a portal passer. We’ll see how Nelson’s recruitment unfolds in the coming weeks.