Former USC and Boise State quarterback Malachi Nelson, a five-star recruit in the Class of 2023, has committed to UTEP via the Transfer Portal with three years of eligibility remaining. ESPN's Pete Thamel was first to report.

Nelson is the most decorated recruit in UTEP football history, but has only attempted 20 career passes in two seasons. He backed up Heisman Trophy-winner and former No.1-overall NFL Draft Pick Caleb Williams at USC. He transferred to Boise State in search of playing time, but lost the preseason battle to Maddux Madsen and completed 12 passes for 128 yards and an interception as the Broncos rolled to the College Football Playoff.

Nelson's transfer accelerates the positive momentum of Scotty Walden's tenure after winning two of his final three games in Year One. Thamel reported that Nelson turned down bigger schools and more money because of his faith in Walden and the staff. He is the favorite to start in Walden's up-tempo, spread attack for the Miners' final season in Conference USA.