LARAMIE -- Wyoming is now in the market for another high school running back after Grayson Rigdon Thursday announced he was recently released from his national letter of intent.

The three-star recruit recently wrapped up a decorated prep career that included becoming the first ever four-time state champion in talent-rich Texas. Rigdon, who initially committed to North Carolina State, was named the game's MVP three times and found the end zone an eye-popping 31 times on the Lone Star State's biggest stage.

He was also a three-time Player of the Year, finishing his high school career with a 59-1 record.

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Rigdon, who stands 5-foot-11 and weighs 185, was not only supposed to join the Cowboys' backfield in 2025, he was even set to receive a tryout window for the basketball team in Laramie.

He was the nation's leading scorer last season, netting 47.3 points per game. He's off to another strong start this winter, recently being named Mr. Texas Player of the Week after pouring in 41 in a win over Palacios. Rigdon also added 15 rebounds, two assists and seven steals.

"After much thought and consideration, I have requested and been granted a release from my commitment at Wyoming due to recent changes in the coaching staff," Rigdon penned on X, referring to the departure of running backs coach Gordie Haug, who is now the tight end and assistant head coach at the University of North Dakota. "I am reopening my recruitment and looking forward to exploring new opportunities.

"I would like to thank Wyoming's coaching staff for all the love and support and offering me an opportunity to be a part of their program."

 

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In his first eight games of the season, his first at Columbus High School and as a member of an 11-man program, he recorded over 1,500 yards and added 27 touchdowns. The number eventually eclipsed 2,000 as he led the Cardinals to the 3A title.

Prior to 2024, Rigdon was a three-time Six-Man Player of the Year at Benjamin High School. He also led that program to three straight state championships, scoring 17 touchdowns in those tilts. Benjamin went 45-0 with Rigdon in the backfield.

Just minutes after announcing he would be heading to Wyoming, Rigdon posted an offer from the University of Arizona on X. Houston and Cal initially showed interest in him before he gave his verbal to NC State.

Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel, in an effort to ink roughly 42 newcomers this winter, is in search of a punter/ kicker combination and a back-up long snapper, along with an additional defensive tackle, edge rusher and now running back, from the high school ranks, according to a source familiar with the situation.

Wyoming has 19 incoming freshmen who Dec. 4 signed on the dotted line. The staff has also added 15 transfers via the portal, including former Charlotte running back Terron Kellman. He joins a room that includes presumptive starter Harrison Waylee, Sam Scott, Nico Hamilton and Dontae Burch, along with rookies Samuel "Tote" Harris (Cibolo, Texas) and Jaden Lawrence (Parker, Colo.).

Spring practice is scheduled to begin March 25.

University of Wyoming’s Top 50 Football Players

During the summer of 2021, 7220Sports.com counted down the Top 50 football players in University of Wyoming history, presented by Premier Bone & Joint Centers, Worthy of Wyoming.

The rules are simple: What was the player's impact while in Laramie? That means NFL stats, draft status or any other accolade earned outside of UW is irrelevant when it comes to this list.

This isn't a one-man job. This task called for a panel of experts. Joining 7220's Cody Tucker are Robert GagliardiJared NewlandRyan Thorburn, and Kevin McKinney.

We all compiled our own list of 50 and let computer averages do the work. Think BCS -- only we hope this catalog is fairer.

Don't agree with a selection? Feel free to sound off on our Twitter: @7220sports - #Top50UWFB

Gallery Credit: 7220Sports.com

- University of Wyoming’s Top 50 Football Players

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