By Michael West, Contributing Writer
It is rare indeed when a local football star shuns Power Four programs like the Arizona Wildcats and the California Golden Bears. Not to mention Group of Five powerhouse Boise State. Well, one local star, Braylon Cardwell, did just that when he signed here locally with the San Diego State Aztecs.
An “under the radar” prospect, Cardwell gained attention over the winter when both Oregon State and Washington State offered the up-and-coming defensive back in February. Cardwell was pegged as an intriguing prospect after his 12-2 Mt. Miguel Matadors reached the CIF Division 3-A regional finals. The six foot, three inch one hundred eighty-pound phenom was named as a 2023 First Team Grossmont Valley All-League Offensive WR.
Notably, Cardwell was among nine Mt. Miguel standouts to receive scholarship offers in 2024. He did not disappear amongst his fellow touted recruits as he earned First Team All-League Grossmont Hills honors on Defense as a cornerback. According to GoAztecs.com, the lanky defensive back has the kind of speed and size combination the Aztecs are looking for-boasting an 11.58 second time in the 100 meters.
The Recruiting Services didn’t consider him an elite prospect, but he still gained recognition, gathering 11 total scholarship offers, including Power Four schools in the West.
| Recruiting Service | Grade | Rating | National Rank | QB Rank | State Ranking |
| On3 | 85 | 3 Star | 1648 | 149 | 128 |
| 247 Sports | 85 | 3 Star | 1651 | 144 | 128 |
| ESPN 300 | 74 | 3 Star | – | 142 | 117 |
| Rivals | 5.5 | 3 Star | – | – | – |
His statistics, according to Max Preps include 12 tackles, and 1 passes defended and 2 interceptions in 2023, and 21 tackles (including 1 tackle for a loss), 2 passes defended with no interceptions in 2024. As a Wide Receiver, he notched 26 catches for 429 yards and 5 touchdowns both years.
San Diego State kept in constant contact with the notable cornerback amidst the competition from higher rated schools-seeking an edge in their efforts to land taller, more physical defensive backs.
The humble prospect did not disappoint as he was a key contributor to the Matadors’ 2024 season. Despite elevating to a more talented division (Mt. Miguel moved from Division IV to Division I-5 in 2024), the Matadors still reached the playoffs.
Cardwell joins local standouts Sidney Dupuy (Cathedral Catholic) and Jett Thomas (La Jolla High) in the San Diego State 2025 Class. Congratulations Mr. Caldwell! Best of luck to you.
Sources: X.com GoAztecs.com Max Preps.com Facebook.com
