Castaneda Signs with NMMI Broncos

By Don Eskins

Former Caveman Robert Castaneda, one of New Mexico’s most prolific prep gridiron receivers for the past two seasons, will be competing at the next level during 2026.

On Wednesday, February 4, Castaneda made it official by signing a letter of intent to play for the NMMI Broncos.

NMMI, a junior college located in Roswell, competes in the Southwest Junior College Football Conference (SWJCFC). During 2025, the Broncos posted a 3-6 overall record and were 2-5 in conference play.

“Signing with NMMI to play college football has been an amazing experience,” said Castaneda. “Getting an opportunity to compete collegiately, and to have my schooling paid for, is such a cool feeling.

“I fell in love with football at a very young age, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to play at the collegiate level,” continued the Bronco-bound former Caveman. “Since suiting up for CHS, I’ve felt like I have the talent to do that, to play at the next level. So, signing with NMMI has been a dream come true.”

Castaneda’s game stats indicate that he has the talent to play at the next level, too.

During 2025, he hauled in 53 receptions for 1,073 yards and 14 touchdowns in helping lead the Cavemen to a 6-6 season and their first state playoff victory in 15 years.

For his efforts on the gridiron, he was named a District 4/5A First Team wide receiver. He was also selected by the NMHSCA as a Class 6A First Team All-State Slot Receiver and New Mexico All-Star.

Also, during his four-year stint at CHS, he set eight new school records.

Carlsbad to NMMI Pipeline

While Castaneda was impressed by NMMI’s campus and athletic facilities, it was head football coach Oliver Soukup’s presence that made joining the Broncos’ program the most attractive and a reality.

“Coach Soukup was the Cavemen’s head coach in 2022. I played for him as a freshman. He was a great coach for us, and I trust him,” he said. “So, when he texted me a few weeks ago about coming up for an official visit, I was ready to go.

“As soon as I got to NMMI, I loved it, and after spending time on campus, checking out their athletic facilities and visiting with the coaches, I committed on site,” he said.

The highly decorated wide-out said he’s already participated in a few workouts at NMMI and feels he’ll have a great shot at landing a starting spot for the Broncos in 2026.

But while Castaneda’s future on the gridiron now resides at NMMI, he hasn’t forgotten the role that Cavemen football has played in helping him to get there.

“Cavemen head coach Cale Sanders has had such a huge impact on my life. He’s such a great coach, and I owe him a lot,” he said. “It’s been so cool being around him, coach Dedrick Simpson, coach James Norman, and other members of the staff for the past few years. They’ve all meant a great deal to me and my development.”

Robert is the son of Robert and Brisa Castaneda.