Gophers Shock Nation: Four-Star Running Back Turns Away Michigan and Alabama—What’s Behind the Stunning Decision?

When a player like Ryan Estrada decides to pledge his talents, it sends ripples far beyond just the recruiting world. This 5-foot-9 dynamo from El Paso didn’t just wake up one day and commit on a whim—no, this was a declaration that’s 1,000% earnest, as he put it himself on X. With a laundry list of offers from powerhouse programs like Michigan, Alabama, and Oklahoma, the Gophers snagging this four-star tailback who ranks as the 20th best in the nation (according to 247Sports Composite) speaks volumes about their recruiting mojo. Estrada’s blazing through his senior year at El Dorado High School with 2,261 yards and 31 touchdowns, and his hometown hero, Vikings’ Aaron Jones, couldn’t be prouder. Add this commitment to a growing class already stacked with talent—and you’ve got a reason to sit up and take notice. LEARN MORE

Originally Published: June 17, 2025 at 2:20 PM CDTEstrada is the 22nd commit in the Gophers class for 2026 and its second running back joining Ezekiel Bates of Malvern, Pa.
“1,000% Committed,” Estrada wrote on X.
The Gophers football program gained a commitment from Texas prep running back Ryan Estrada on Tuesday.
Estrada is a four-star prospect, according to 247Sports Composite ranking, and pegged as the 20th running back in the nation. The addition of Estrada comes after the U gained five pledges on Sunday.
The 5-foot-9, 195-pound tailback from El Paso had offers from Michigan, Alabama, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Missouri and others. He visited Ann Arbor, Mich., in early June, came to Dinkytown last weekend and was scheduled to go to Tuscaloosa, Ala., this weekend.
“Proud of the young men in EP,” Jones wrote in Instagram. “Holding it down. They can’t sleep forever.”

Estrada rushed for 2,261 yards and 31 touchdowns  at El Dorado High School in 2024. Vikings running back Aaron Jones is also from El Paso and praised Estrada.