BOOM WIRE: Texas A&M Lands Five-Star Oregon DE Richard Wesley for 2026 Class
In a major shake-up to the college football recruiting landscape, five-star defensive end Richard Wesley has officially committed to the Texas A&M Aggies, giving their 2026 class a massive boost. Wesley, who hails from Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California, had previously committed to the Oregon Ducks before abruptly reopening his recruitment.
Wesley, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound edge rusher, is widely recognized as one of the elite prospects in the 2026 class. Known for his explosive first step, long frame, and relentless motor, he ranks as the No. 3 defensive end and the No. 18 overall prospect in the nation, according to ESPN. His combination of power, athleticism, and technique has made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen and a highly coveted recruit for powerhouse programs across the country.
Originally committing to Oregon in early May 2025, Wesley’s decision seemed solid—until it wasn’t. Just over two weeks after pledging to the Ducks, he announced his decommitment, sending shockwaves through the recruiting world. Reports indicated that even after his commitment to Oregon, Wesley was still exploring other opportunities and quietly keeping his options open.
Following his decommitment, Wesley lined up a string of official visits, with stops at Texas, Ohio State, Oregon (again), and Texas A&M. Ultimately, it was his trip to College Station that sealed the deal. Sources close to the recruitment say Wesley was impressed by the Aggies’ coaching staff, facilities, and the vision laid out for his development in the SEC.
His commitment is a huge win for head coach Mike Elko and the Aggies, who have been aggressively targeting elite defensive talent to solidify their future. Adding a high-caliber edge rusher like Wesley not only enhances the depth and strength of their defensive front but also sends a message that Texas A&M intends to compete at the highest level in the coming years.
This commitment also reflects the shifting nature of modern college football recruiting. With players frequently re-evaluating their options, especially in an era influenced by NIL opportunities and real-time program success, high-profile flips like Wesley’s are becoming more common.
For Wesley, Texas A&M offers the perfect blend of competitive football, a path to early playing time, and a developmental environment that could eventually propel him to the NFL. His arrival in College Station will be highly anticipated, and Aggies fans can look forward to seeing one of the nation’s top defensive prospects wreak havoc in the SEC.
In short, Texas A&M has landed a game-changer in Richard Wesley—a dynamic defensive end with the potential to be a future star. With his commitment, the Aggies’ 2026 class takes a significant leap forward, firmly placing them among the top recruiting classes in the nation.
