The 2026 Rice Football recruiting class doubled down at the most important position, adding another passer to the fold. Former UNLV quarterback Gael Ochoa has committed to the Owls.
The departure of multiple quarterbacks this offseason left a pair of spots to be addressed at the position in the 2026 Rice Football Recruiting class. The staff took a two-pronged approach, adding an instant-impact grad transfer and a younger player to develop. The latter is the Owls’ potential future at the position. Former UNLV quarterback Gael Ochoa has committed to the Owls.
A Texas native from El Paso, Ochoa signed with UNLV out of high school. He redshirted during the 2024 season before being jumped in line at the position when the Rebels added Virginia transfer Anthony Colandrea and Michigan quarterback Alex Orji. With the uncertainty surrounding that position at UNLV right now, Ochoa opted for the portal and a return to his home state.
The signing of former UCF quarterback Jacurri Brown was the headline addition at the position for the 2026 class, and understandably so. Ochoa made his formal pledge to the Owls with full knowledge they’d be bringing in Brown. With three years of eligibility remaining, Ochoa addresses the future need with Brown slotted in to start this coming season.
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Even when going back to look at Ocho’s high school tape, there are clear markers of a player comfortable in space who can make plays with his legs while remaining ready to strike deep. He possesses good field vision and is instinctive. Given a couple of seasons to mature in the Owls’ system, Ochoa is a high upside bet the staff made sure to get on campus.
