The 2023 Rice Football recruiting class finished the summer strong. Defensive end Joseph Mutombo has committed to the Owls.
A cluster of new offers for potential members of the 2023 Rice football recruiting class went out during the early signing period last December. Among those offers was Keller Central defensive end Joseph Mutombo who, after months of consideration, made his decision official. Mutombo has committed to the Owls.
Mutombo chose Rice over offers from Houston, Louisiana, Tulane, Navy and others. Any time Rice can post a recruiting win over their crosstown rivals is a good thing and it’s also encouraging to see some notable other G5 programs in the mix for a player the Owls coveted.
For Mutombo, that relationship was key. He told The Roost that Rice has “always shown me so much love, from even before I was offered.” The Owls’ steadfastness won the day, allowing them to secure his pledge.
After an early run on the offensive line, Mutombo marks the second defensive lineman the Owls have taken in their class so far. Furr High School product Chris Clark committed to Rice almost exactly one month prior.
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Getting to the quarterback is the top priority for someone at the edge position and that’s exactly what Mutombo’s highlights showcase. Mutombo told The Roost he spent the offseason focusing on his explosiveness, hopefully adding to his already impressive burst and pursuit abilities.
He’ll arrive at South Main with a few tricks already secure in his pass rush tool kit, showcasing an ability to win with power and speed to the inside and the outside. He’s long (6-foot-5) but still moves well with a good frame (215 pounds) to add to in the future.
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