Cleveland's Elijah Richards decommits from UNM

Cleveland High School defensive end and tight end Elijah Richards has decommitted from the University of New Mexico, he announced Wednesday via social media.

The 6-foot-4, 225-pound senior was named to the Journal’s All-Metro team after making 36 total tackles and 5.5 sacks with the Storm last season. He originally committed to UNM as a tight end in March, choosing the Lobos over offers from Northern Arizona and rival New Mexico State.

“After much thought and consideration, I have decided to decommit from the University of New Mexico,” Richards posted on X. “(I) held multiple (Division I) offers prior to committing. Open to all opportunities, ready to make a positive impact on a program!”

When reached by the Journal, Richards said decommitting was a “personal decision,” adding that he’s still receiving recruiting attention from NAU and NMSU. Fresno State, North Alabama and Utah State have also expressed interest, he said, as he searches for a program that meets his preferences.

“A good coaching staff, just a good environment,” Richards said when asked what he's looking for in a program. “ … I’m just looking for a school that really feels like home.”

Richards was not announced as part of the Lobos' class of 2026 during the early signing period in December. If he was signed, Richards would’ve been the fourth local product to do so with UNM in that period; Cibola linebacker Hayes Baum, Cleveland wide receiver Jacob Maldonado and Eldorado offensive lineman Matheu Alderman all signed letters of intent with UNM last month.

A three-year letterman at Cleveland, Richards tallied 91 total tackles and 7.5 total tackles over 42 games with the Storm. He also caught three passes for 16 yards and one touchdown, all as a junior.

Cleveland won the 6A state title in two of Richards’ three years on varsity, claiming back-to-back championships in his junior and senior seasons.

Sean Reider covers college football and other sports for the Journal. You can reach him at sreider@abqjournal.com or via X at @lenaweereider.