Missouri went off the beaten path to find running back Tavorus Jones.
Four years later, the Tigers returned to scouting El Paso, Texas, and found Ryan Estrada, a Class of 2026 four-star back. Albeit a full high school career younger than Jones, Estrada still recognized the talent of the former El Paso (Tex.) Burges four-star.
"I do know him," Estrada said. "We don't have too much of a relationship, but he definitely put on for El Paso. ... I feel like us in El Paso, we're overlooked, just because we're a small city, but he's definitely paved the way and helped me out and all the players in El Paso."
Estrada announced Monday an official visit to Missouri for May 30-June 1, marking his first of four trips to begin the summer. Tigers running back coach Curtis Luper offered Estrada in January.
"It's been a great relationship slowly, slowly getting way better by the day," Estrada said.
Continuing his long lasted presence in recruiting Texas, Luper targeted Estrada for what he accomplished in an outside-zone scheme at El Paso (Tex.) El Dorado. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound back rushed for 2,261 yards and 31 touchdowns on 154 carries. Estrada also caught for 114 yards and two scores on nine receptions.
"Outside zone is our bread and butter, but inside zone, we get it done, too," Estrada said. "I would just fit right in. Coach Lupe sees that in me, and I appreciate him for that."
Estrada also set official visits with Wisconsin (June 5-8), Minnesota (June 13-15) and Tulane (June 19-21). He unofficially visited the Golden Gophers on Tuesday.
2026 El Paso RB Ryan Estrada schedules Mizzou official visit
Four-star Ryan Estrada grew up in El Paso, Texas, watching a current Missouri running back develop for the next level.
