Arizona’s 2023 class continues to grow.

On Tuesday, the Wildcats scored a commitment from 3-star offensive tackle Elijha Payne. The Las Vegas (Nev.) Desert Pines product chose the Wildcats over interest from Arizona State, Arkansas, Florida State, Miami, and Oregon, among others.

The 6-foot-7, 285-pound Payne rates as a 3-star in the industry-generated 247 Composite. He’s the 56th-ranked tackle in the 2023 class, the sixth-ranked prospect from the state of Nevada, and the 656th overall recruit in the country. Payne took an official visit to Arizona back in Jun and seemingly enjoyed his time.

He’s a prospect with major potential. 247Sports national recruiting analyst Greg Biggins wrote this on his game after observing him during the National Preps National Combine in Las Vegas back in February:

Payne immediately caught our attention at player check-in. He has a prototype tackle frame, long and athletic and is just about exactly how you would draw it up. His 80-inch wingspan was the fourth longest in the event and he impressed during the one-on-one and position drills with his feet, balance, and nastiness. He’s a highly competitive kid as well and it’s easy to see why he’s being recruited at the national level.

Payne’s pledge brings the Arizona class up to 17 known commitments. You can view his highlight tape below, via Hudl: