The timing was perfect for Grayson Ochoa to make his college football decision.
Army offensive line coach Cheston Blackshear stopped by his Ochoa’s Texas home Sunday. The Strake Jesuit (Texas) running back made his commitment to Army during the visit.
“Army just had a sense of brotherhood that I have here at my high school and it’s something I don’t want to step away from,” said Ochoa, who visited Army in late January. “Walking around the facilities I saw current Army football players being very respectful and kind which is exactly what I look for.”
Ochoa is the first Texas commit of Army’s 2027 class. He chose the Black Knights over offers from Air Force and UNLV.
“My recruiting process with Army has been a meaningful and eye-opening experience,” Ochoa said. “From the very beginning, what stood out to me was the culture of accountability and discipline, to be something bigger than yourself. Every interaction I had with the coaching staff and players shows how strong that brotherhood is and how much pride they take in representing the program.”
Army is recruiting Ochoa to play slotback. Ochoa rushed for 781 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns and a 92-yard run as a junior. He played in the same backfield as John Hebert, a career 8,000-yard rusher who is headed to Houston.
“I feel like it (slotback) is exactly the kind of player I am and as long as I can get the ball in my hands I’ll be ready,” Ochoa said.
Ochoa is a two-sport spring athlete, finishing up his lacrosse and track seasons. He scored three goals in his team’s final regular-season game while running the 100 meters, 300 hurdles and 400 relay.
“My lacrosse and track seasons are winding down, which means I will be starting spring ball really soon,” Ochoa said. “I can’t wait to get back on the field for my last year of high school football.”
Ochoa is looking forward to growing as leader and a person at West Point.
“The chance to be part of the academy and develop both on and off the field is something that sets Army apart from any other program,” Ochoa said. “I was also impressed by how genuine the coaches were and how easily they welcome me when I visited. I couldn’t be happier with my decision.”
