Mares could be top player in NM

Cibola (N.M.) offensive lineman Rio Mares could be the top prospect in the state next year. He holds two early offers and is hearing from multiple schools from outside the region as well.

Mares, 6-5, 330 pounds earned several post-season honors following his junior season including 1st team all-metro, all-district and all-state honors. He hails from the same school as former Michigan defensive lineman Alan Branch and although Mares isn't quite at that level, he is high level Div I player at this time.

"I have offers from New Mexico and New Mexico State," Mares said. "I"m also hearing from Wisconsin, UCLA, Wake Forest and Connecticut.

"I like the two in-instate schools right now and grew up a New Mexico fan. I also like Wisconsin, Colorado and Notre Dame, that would be my top five right now.

"Location is important to me in picking a school, I want to be where I'll be comfortable. I'm also looking for a school with a strong football program and also a school that is strong academically as well. I want to major in Business and that will play a role in my decision."

Mares will attend the NIKE Camp at BYU in June but was unsure about the rest of his summer camp plans.