Malachi Nelson’s Long Journey Leads to UTEP

From Five-Star to El Paso

Nelson’s journey hasn’t been a smooth ride. He was a back-to-back California Gatorade Player of the Year and the top recruit in the 2023 class. What most people don’t realize is that he played his junior and senior high school seasons with a torn labrum, only opting for surgery once he reached college.

He began his college career at USC under Lincoln Riley, backing up Caleb Williams. A transfer to Boise State followed, but after the head coach left just four days into Nelson’s arrival, meaningful playing time never materialized.

Now, under new head coach Scotty Walden, Nelson fin ally gets the role many expected years ago—the chance to lead an offense.

Why Utep?

For Nelson, the decision wasn’t just about football. On his official visit, he got off the plane and immediately felt a connection. Walden talked to him first about life, not plays or schemes. Nelson admitted that for a long time he felt like he had nobody truly in his corner. That personal connection mattered, and it ultimately sealed his decision.

Then came the football side. Walden praised his new quarterback, calling him “an extremely talented young man.” Nelson needed belief, stability and confidence—and he found all three in El Paso, Texas.

UTEP is now building around Nelson, hoping to elevate the program for years to come. The Miners kick off their season against Utah State, and for Conference USA, this storyline has the potential to capture national attention.

Nelson’s Strengths

Nelson brings a unique set of skills to UTEP. First is his arm talent. He’s still one of the purest passers in college football today. Nelson can make every throw. Secondly, is his resilience. Despite a key injury, depth chart setbacks and transfers, he never walked away. Lastly, is his mobility. Nelson is a smooth operator who extends plays with his legs while also prioritizing getting the ball to his teammates.

The Bigger Picture

In the transfer portal era, Nelson’s journey highlights how fast circumstances can change. From USC to Boise State to now UTEP, he’s proof that elite talent eventually finds its stage. For the Miners, this could be the spark that redefines what their program is capable of.

For Nelson, this is the long-awaited opportunity to lead an offense. For UTEP, it’s a clear signal of intent: they’re ready to ride with a quarterback who once had the entire nation’s attention.

And for me, article No. 100 couldn’t be more fitting. It’s a story about resilience, fresh starts and belief in what’s possible when the right opportunity finally arrives.