While the University of Utah welcomed a large number of recruits last weekend, many of which were from out of state, local offensive linemen Isaiah Garcia was amongst those taking official visits. Despite a familiarity with the program given the fact that his older brother played up there for a few seasons and having visited unofficially so many times, Garcia saw a different side of the Utah football program that created some separation amid his other offers.

“I’ve been trying to take an official out there, even though I’ve been there so many times, and I’m really glad I did,” said Garcia. “I got to see some things I didn’t see on my unofficials and I got to see some unique things they did just for me. It was a really good visit.”

In addition to his brother playing at the University, Garcia has held an offer from the Utes since his sophomore year and taken a number of unofficials over the past few seasons. Because of this, Jim and offensive line coach Jim Harding have had a lot of time to get to know each other.

“Harding and I have built a really close relationship over the last three years,” Garcia said.

“A big conversation I had with Coach Harding is where he sees me fitting into the program if I was to go there,” Garcia continued. “Seeing where I’d fit in and what he would do with me if I got up there and my potential. That was the main conversation that was really cool with Harding.”

During the visit, Garcia was also able to spend time with junior offensive linemen Sataoa Laumea. Coming from similar situations, Garcia connected with the talented Utah linemen as he asked questions about the program regarding the coaching staff, his development and why he picked Utah among other top schools.

In terms of what Garcia is looking for in a program, he shared that academics, development, and opportunity are the main criteria he is searching for. Following this past weekend, he considers Utah to be one of two schools that possesses those characteristics and checks all of his boxes.

“I think the future is really bright for the program having the recruiting class that they did in 2023,” said Garcia. “It makes me want to be a part of that for sure, but all I know is it is going to be a really hard decision in July.”

As he plans to make his official decision next month, Utah and USC appear to be in the driver's seat. According to Garcia, both are very high on his list. Before his decision, the local linemen will also make visits to Oregon and Stanford before playing his senior high school season at Corner Canyon.