TEXAS — Yaheim Riley grew up in Florida where he says he learned the game of football from his older brothers and playing out in the street. He didn’t get into pads and play real football until he moved to Texas in middle school.

What You Need To Know

  • Yaheim Riley's nickname is "Miami" because he grew up in Florida

  • Riley plays offense and defense for LBJ High School in Austin

  • He has college offers from schools including Arizona, Utah and Baylor

“It was different. I wasn’t really used to equipment,” Riley said. “So I had to adjust to it.”

It didn’t take long for him to adjust. Riley got to LBJ High School in Austin and was quick to learn from some of the older guys on the team that made the 2021 state title game.

“When I first came they still had Tre Tre (Latreveon) McCutchin and Sed (rick) Alexander,” Riley said. “They gave me a good example of being a leader.”

Riley would play early during his high school career, becoming a big contributor as a sophomore during the 2023 season. Now he’s a junior and one of the veterans on a Jaguar team that went undefeated during the regular season and has advanced to the second round of the playoffs.

“Trying to bring these boys to a championship and I know they’re trying to do the same for me,” said Riley. “I try every week to get them better and they’re going to get me better.”

Riley has helped them be better by being a great player on both sides of the ball. He’s a hard-hitting safety on defense and explosive wide receiver on offense.

“My mentality is I think nobody can run me over, so if I can make the hit I’m gonna come make the hit,” he said. “I got a lot of speed so you give me a fade ball I’m gonna get up for it.”

Riley’s success on the field has led to a lot of interest from some top college programs across the country. He already holds offers from schools including Arizona, Utah and Baylor. A chance to play in college would be a life changer for him.

“It just impacts me to go harder,” said Riley of the offers. “I can change my mom’s life because she’s been through a lot. I can do a lot to change her life and my family’s life.”

What is Riley looking for in a college? It’s pretty simple.

“I just need someone that’s going to care for me and give me the best education I can get,” he said. “Just do good in life after football.”