RECRUITING: Desert Pines’ Hayes commits to UTEP

Leon Hayes already had Texas-El Paso’s football program on his mind before last weekend.

An impressive official visit to the Miners’ campus Saturday was all the senior safety needed to cement his college future.

Hayes committed to UTEP on Monday, after taking in the Miners’ 31-17 home victory over Colorado State.

“I was already looking at going there, but the trip opened my eyes,” he said. “With the fans, it’s like a big family, and the coaches care a lot.”

Hayes was recruited by the Miners as a safety, although he also stars at running back for Desert Pines.

The Jaguar standout left UTEP impressed with the school’s environment, dormitories and football facilities.

“I liked what I saw, and it helped a lot,” he said of his decision.

The 6-foot, 200-pound Hayes said there is also a chance he could contribute as a kick returner for the Miners.

Hayes received additional recruiting interest from UNLV, UNR, San Diego State, Utah and Arizona, but didn’t want to wait for more scholarship offers after feeling comfortable with UTEP.

Heading into last week, Hayes had rushed for 729 yards and six touchdowns. Defensively, he was the Jaguars’ leading tackler with 40 stops, while logging two interceptions and one sack.

Desert Pines (3-5, 3-3 Northeast League) closes the regular season with a crucial game at Chaparral at 8 p.m. Thursday as the Jaguars push for a spot in the Sunrise Region playoffs. The game will be televised locally on Cox Cable 12.

“We need to execute and make sure we’re on point,” Hayes said.