Four-star Miami commit says Ole Miss has a chance alongside three others

Talented 2025 linebacker Elijah Melendez has much to consider regarding his potential final decision on where he will play his college football in 2025. However, that decision will not be made until after his official visit to Miami on June 21.

The four-star prospect has been committed to the Hurricanes since December 2023. However, Ole Miss, Auburn, and Oklahoma are working to flip his commitment from Mario Cristobal's team. Melendez spoke to Chad Simmons at On3 about the next steps in making his decision.

""After the visit to Miami, I will go home, sit down, take some time, and make my final decision. All four schools are up there.""

- Elijah Melendez speaking to On3

Elijah Melendez is rated a four-star prospect by On3 and two other recruiting sites. Rivals have him as high as the No. 2 ranked linebacker and the No. 17 ranked player in Florida.

Elijah Melendez moved Ole Miss up after his official visit

Ole Miss was always on the shortlist for Elijah Melendez. However, his official visit to Oxford on June 10 went so well that he said, "It's hard to say no to the family." Melendez said the push from SEC schools has affected his commitment to Miami, with schools pulling even with the Hurricanes.

If you look at his high school tape, you can see why Lane Kiffin and defensive coordinator Pete Golding want Melendez to be a Rebel. The 6-foot-1, 220-pound linebacker hits hard, alongside excellent athleticism and a high motor. He is a player that would fit perfectly into the Pete Golding system.

Ole Miss will see if they have done enough to flip his commitment, with a final decision likely in August or beyond.