New Mexico High School Football: Offensive Lineman of the Year Finalists
The trenches decide championships, and this year’s New Mexico High School Football Offensive Lineman of the Year finalists represent the best of the best across the state. Voting is now open, and fans can help determine who earns one of the state’s premier football honors.
Alex Rivera – Lovington
Skinny: A cornerstone of Lovington’s physical identity, Rivera anchored an offensive line that helped guide the Wildcats to a 7-5 season and a trip to the Class 5A semifinals. Lovington consistently controlled the line of scrimmage in big moments, and Rivera was central to that postseason push. He’s a Fresno State commit.
Christian Medrano – Bloomfield
Skinny: One of the driving forces behind one of the most dominant seasons in the state, Medrano helped pave the way for Bloomfield’s 12-1 record and 4A state championship. The Bobcats scored an eye-popping 723 points, with Medrano setting the tone up front week after week.
Damion Lopez – Cleveland
Skinny: Cleveland’s championship offense was relentless, and Lopez was a major reason why. The Storm finished 12-1, captured the Class 6A state title, and scored 609 points on the season, with Lopez anchoring an offensive line that overwhelmed opponents all year.
Danny Chavez-Gonzales – Roswell
Skinny: A key piece of Roswell’s run to the 5A championship game, Chavez-Gonzales helped the Coyotes post a 9-4 record and finish as state runners-up. Roswell’s offense totaled 455 points, with consistent line play fueling their deep postseason run.
Devin Riebsomes – St. Michael’s
Skinny: Perfection defined St. Michael’s season, and Riebsomes was at the heart of it. The Horsemen went 13-0, won their third straight 3A state championship, and extended their win streak to 33 games. The offense piled up 558 points, powered by dominant trench play.
Diego Ortega – Alamogordo
Skinny: Despite a 4-6 team record, Ortega’s individual play stood out statewide. Widely regarded as one of the top-ranked offensive linemen in New Mexico, he consistently competed at a high level and drew attention for his technique, strength, and football IQ.
Emmanuel Ortega – Los Alamos
Skinny: A leader on a Los Alamos team that went 10-1, Ortega helped the Hilltoppers capture the District 1-5A title and reach the 5A quarterfinals. His presence up front was instrumental in one of the program’s strongest recent seasons.
Gracin Poe – Las Cruces
Skinny: Las Cruces put together a special year, finishing 12-1, winning every regular-season game, and earning a spot as the 6A runner-up. Poe was a key piece of an offense that scored 599 points, consistently opening lanes and protecting in high-stakes matchups.
Moses Sparks – Cleveland
Skinny: A dominant force on the line for the 6A state champions, Sparks helped Cleveland rack up 609 offensive points during its 12-1 title run. A University of Utah commit, Sparks combined physicality and polish to anchor one of the state’s best offensive fronts.
Skyler “Sarge” Sargent – La Cueva
Skinny: La Cueva’s march to the 6A semifinals was built on toughness in the trenches, and Sargent embodied that identity. The Bears finished 10-3 and scored 445 points, with Sargent leading the line and earning a commitment to New Mexico Highlands.