Faith-Driven Decisions: Why Top Recruits Are Choosing to Pause College

Weston Port, a standout linebacker from San Juan Hills in California, has a unique path ahead of him. Even before he became a top recruit, he knew he wanted to serve a two-year mission for the Mormon Church. This desire was inspired by his two older sisters, whose missions profoundly impacted their lives. Since middle school, he has been committed to this plan.

As he moved through the recruiting process, Port eventually chose to play for UCLA. He remained firm in his decision to serve his mission, understanding it would pause his football career for two years. He plans to go to Spain for his mission and return around December 2026 or January 2027 to join the Bruins.

Port acknowledges the challenges ahead. “It’s definitely a sacrifice,” he says. “I’ll have only an hour each morning to work out. It won’t be the same as being here at school and playing football.” However, he believes this experience will make him a better player. He hopes to come back with more maturity, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed.

One reason Port chose UCLA was the coaching staff’s supportive attitude toward his mission. Unlike other schools that didn’t share that perspective, UCLA viewed his mission as a journey that would enrich his life. “They recognized that I’d come back older and more mature, which was a big factor for me,” he shared. “Some coaches didn’t understand and it turned me off.”

Ryder Lyons, a five-star quarterback who also plans to serve a mission, echoed similar sentiments. Out of about 40 schools that offered him, only one coach reacted negatively to his decision to serve. He noted, “Coaches have been pretty cool about it. They see me as part of the 2027 class and it’s been a little strange, but they’re mostly supportive.”

Lyons, who has a brother playing at USC after his own mission, is also weighing the decision. “It’s my faith,” he said. “I see this as a way to show my commitment to God for all the blessings He’s given me.”

For both Port and Lyons, the recruiting journey has revealed who truly cares about them as individuals. For Port, terms like “growth” and “long-term success” were crucial during the process. He has always known he wanted to serve a mission, a goal he set for himself before realizing his football potential. Seeing the positive changes in his sisters influenced him greatly.

As they prepare for this unique experience, both players are focused on their faith and growth, proving that sometimes, the journey off the field is just as important as the one on it.

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