The University of Utah football program has secured a monumental commitment in the 2026 recruiting class with the pledge of five-star offensive tackle Kelvin Obot from Fruitland, Idaho.
Obot’s decision to join the Utes over other top programs like Michigan, Nebraska, and Oregon, marks a significant win for Head Coach Kyle Whittingham and his staff.
Initially committing as a four-star prospect, Obot’s stock has surged, with Rivals recently elevating him to a five-star recruit, ranking him as the No. 7 overall player in the country and the No. 2 offensive tackle in the 2026 class.
This makes him the highest-rated commit in Utah’s 2026 class and one of only a handful of players nationally to earn the coveted five-star distinction on Rivals’ database.
Obot’s impressive athleticism and skill set have garnered significant attention from scouts. Rivals’ analysts laud his “outstanding functional athleticism,” “great film, stellar movement skills, projectable frame, and multi-sport background,” noting his 53-1 foot shot put throw this spring. This versatile athletic profile, combined with his dominance against high school competition, positions him as a player with one of the highest upsides at offensive tackle in the current recruiting cycle.
The 6-foot-5, 265-pound lineman from Fruitland High School is seen as a “game-changer” and an instant impact player by recruiting experts. His commitment is particularly impactful for the Utes, who have a strong history of developing pro-caliber offensive tackles under the guidance of offensive line coach Jim Harding. With current Utah starting offensive tackles Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu projected as high-round NFL draft picks in 2026, Obot’s arrival is exceptionally timely, ensuring a pipeline of elite talent to the Utes’ offensive front.
Obot’s pledge not only bolsters Utah’s offensive line for the future but also signals the program’s growing ability to attract elite national talent, even from less traditional recruiting grounds like Idaho.
He joins Meridian High School standout and three-star linebacker LaGary Mitchell as the second commitment from Idaho in Utah’s 2026 class.
While Utah’s 2026 recruiting class currently ranks No. 50 nationally and No. 10 in the Big 12 according to 247Sports (where Obot is still considered a four-star prospect), the addition of a player of Obot’s caliber is a significant boost.
His commitment underscores the Utes’ commitment to building a competitive program with top-tier talent, a move that will undoubtedly excite the Utah faithful
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