Michael Mitchell Jr.’s first time at Ole Miss was an eventful one. He recaps his time at Juice Fest 24

2026 Archbishop Riordan (Calif.) quarterback Michael Mitchell Jr. , was taken aback when he first arrived in Mississippi. After all, it was his first time and he didn’t really know what to expect. But the three-star prospect was impressed with just about everything upon his arrival.

“I wanted to come out here to see what life was like in the south and in Mississippi,” Mitchell said. “It was really cool and laid back. It’s really cool, I loved it.”

The 5-foot-11, 175 pound recruit is ranked as the No. 332 prospect in the 2026 On3 Industry Ranking. He is the 27th-ranked quarterback and California’s No. 38 junior. As a sophomore, Mitchell threw for 2,927 yards and 31 touchdowns. He also ran for three more scores.

The junior signal caller had a chance to perform during a private workout at Juice Fest 24.

“There was definitely a lot of talent there. Some really good wide receivers and DBs,” Mitchell said. “I was impressed by that. Me and a few other quarterbacks got a lot of reps. It was great to throw in front of coach (Lane) Kiffin .”

He also had an opportunity to catch up with offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr.

“It’s always great to talk with coach Weis but it was great to see him again as well,” Mitchell said. “He has been out to see me throw back home, earlier in the spring. It was really nice to meet his family and the rest of the staff, too.”

Mitchell says, for now, he is mainly focused on Arkansas, Ole Miss and Vanderbilt. Further, he mentions those three programs are the ones he “talks to the most” and has the “best relationship” with.

Ironically, all are in the south and in the SEC. But, the talented recruit knows what he wants and is set to find the right fit.

“Growing up, I always wanted to study aeronautical engineering,” Mitchell said. “But, now I want to focus on business and finance.”

Quarterbacks typically make commitments public early. Michael Mitchell Jr., tells OMSpirit this is tentatively the plan.

“I am going to talk it out with my family. We don’t have a specific timeline but when it feels right, we’ll do it,” Mitchell said. “We will gather as much information as possible first and foremost. It’s a big decision and we want to make it right.”

Mitchell has already taken trips to Arkansas, Oregon State, Stanford and Vanderbilt. Now with his first trip to Oxford, Miss., completed, he is ready to return.

“We play on Saturdays so it will be tough, but the staff wants me back here for a game this fall,” Mitchell said. “I know they have some big home games this year so, it will be difficult, but I want to make it back.”

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