Talented 4-star quarterback Oscar Rios presents himself as a leader, a team-first player, and someone who brings value both on and off the field. Every coach he meets says nice things about his maturity. Maybe each of them also wants to have him in their program. But now, only DeShaun Foster at UCLA and Brent Brennan at Arizona have the chance to recruit him.
If you’re still confused, the elite 2026 quarterback has officially narrowed his choices down to just these two programs. Many now believe Rios might embrace his family heritage and choose Arizona, making this a deeply emotional decision for his future.
Oscar Rios Sets Decision Date After Naming UCLA and Arizona as Finalists
Rios’ 4-star status as a QB makes him one of the most demanding prospects in the 2026 class. Currently, he is ranked as the No. 10 quarterback in the nation and the No. 21 overall talent in California, per 247Sports. So, the attention he is receiving is well deserved. But now, only two can compete in the race: UCLA and Arizona.
Recruiting insider Hayes Fawcett recently broke the news on X:
BREAKING: Four-Star QB Oscar Rios is down to UCLA and Arizona, he tells me for @on3recruits
The 6’3 177 QB from Downey, CA will announce his Commitment June 27th
Where Should He Go? https://t.co/EPiN9K7VWe pic.twitter.com/OJTzWnAyVT
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 17, 2025
Since then, we have encountered several fan theories across social media. Some are backing UCLA as his potential landing spot, while others believe Arizona could be the lucky winner.
For much of his high school career, he played in Downey, California, where the Iamaleava brothers also made their mark before moving on to UCLA. As a result, Rios has already lived in their shadow throughout his school life. If he were to commit to the Bruins, it could feel like more of the same.
That’s where the Wildcats could potentially gain an advantage. He recently completed an official visit to Arizona, and his comment that “Arizona might be the lucky one” suggests the Wildcats are gaining momentum.
The 6’3″, 175-pound quarterback had a stellar junior season, throwing for 2,554 yards and 22 touchdowns while adding 735 rushing yards. Right now, he is in the “Elite 11” quarterback camp in Los Angeles. Reports are pretty positive regarding his camp, as he’s continuously impressing scouts with his quick release and deep-ball accuracy.
Given that, Arizona will obviously make a strong push to secure his commitment. But for now, it’s still just another wild speculation. When Rios spoke about his family roots, he discussed the values that seem to align with the Wildcats’ culture he is looking for.
However, the California native also asked fans on social media where he should go. As expected, fans are divided. UCLA supporters want him in blue and gold, while others believe Arizona should be his final destination.
— Oscar Rios (@_OscarriosQB) June 17, 2025
For now, after his recent visit to Tucson, the Wildcats seem to have a better shot at landing him. We’ll find out the answer on June 27, when Rios makes his official announcement. Until then, you can consider Brennan and Arizona as strong contenders for his commitment.
