Tennessee Flips 2025 RB Daune Morris from USC: ‘The Opportunity at Tennessee is Great for Me’
In the ever-competitive world of college football recruiting, surprises often come at the most unexpected moments. Recently, one of the most significant flips in the 2025 class took place when running back Daune Morris, a highly sought-after prospect, decommitted from USC (University of Southern California) and committed to the University of Tennessee. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound running back from the state of Georgia shocked many when he made his decision, citing the “great opportunity” that Tennessee presents for his future.
Morris had been a verbal commit to USC since the summer of 2023, but his commitment to the Trojans didn’t hold long. Despite USC’s strong football program and the prestige of its rich football history, Morris had been increasingly drawn to Tennessee’s offers, both on and off the field. The Vols, under head coach Josh Heupel, have rapidly become one of the most intriguing programs in college football, showcasing a high-flying offense that has proven to be both exciting and productive. But for Morris, the decision wasn’t just about football; it was about his future, both academically and athletically.
Morris’s commitment to USC had initially been seen as a major win for Lincoln Riley and his staff. USC had been making significant strides in the recruiting world since Riley took over as head coach in 2022, and securing a talented running back like Morris was considered a step in the right direction. However, as is often the case with top-tier recruits, interest from other programs continued to grow, and eventually, Tennessee made a compelling case that could not be ignored.
“The opportunity at Tennessee is great for me,” Morris explained in a statement following his decommitment from USC. “The coaching staff is amazing, and I can see the vision for my future in their offense. They’ve been consistent with me, and I know they have big plans for me. The running back development is special here, and the culture of winning is something I want to be a part of.”
Morris’s statement sheds light on what ultimately led him to flip his commitment: the chance to play in Tennessee’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense. Coach Heupel’s system relies heavily on speed, skill, and adaptability, which plays into Morris’s strengths as a powerful, versatile back with breakaway speed. Additionally, Heupel has consistently developed NFL-caliber running backs during his tenure at Tennessee, further proving that the Vols’ program offers an attractive pathway to the next level.
One of the primary reasons Morris ultimately flipped his commitment to Tennessee was the opportunity for early playing time. While USC’s roster is deep with talented running backs, the Vols have been looking to fill key spots in their backfield for the 2025 season, and Morris believes he has a good chance to earn significant playing time early in his career.
In addition to the athletic opportunities, Morris also spoke about the program’s culture and environment. Tennessee has made a name for itself as a rising power in college football, and the Vols have been performing well under Heupel’s leadership, breaking into the top ranks in the SEC. With a passionate fan base and a state-of-the-art football facility, Tennessee offers a setting that’s appealing both to recruits looking to win and those focused on building a future in football.
Since arriving in Knoxville, Heupel has proven his ability to develop players in a fast-paced system that doesn’t just focus on offense, but also on player development and NFL preparation. Several Tennessee running backs, such as Jabari Small and Jaylen Wright, have had solid contributions over the past few seasons, showcasing the program’s ability to develop talent and get players ready for the next level.
Morris, who is already known for his blend of size, speed, and football IQ, fits perfectly into Tennessee’s system. While he may not have the same national recognition as some other 2025 recruits, his decision to commit to Tennessee is a major statement about the direction the Vols are heading. His ability to break tackles and burst through holes in the offensive line makes him an excellent fit for Heupel’s style of play, which values quick, explosive offensive plays.
For Tennessee fans, the commitment of Daune Morris is a signal of the program’s growing momentum in recruiting. Under Heupel, the Vols have been landing top-tier recruits from across the country, and Morris is just another piece in the puzzle of what is shaping up to be an exciting future in Knoxville. With a player of Morris’s caliber, Tennessee’s recruiting class for 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best in recent years.
Moreover, Morris’s flip serves as a reminder of the volatility of recruiting and how quickly things can change. What seemed like a locked commitment to USC has now turned into a key commitment to Tennessee, further solidifying the Vols’ status as a rising power in college football recruiting.
As Morris prepares to make the move from high school to college, the Vols are not only gaining a talented running back but also a player who is excited about the future at Tennessee. The excitement and energy that Morris brings to the field, paired with the Vols’ explosive offense, should make for a promising combination in the years to come.
For Tennessee, this commitment is not just a win on the recruiting trail, but a testament to the direction the program is headed under Heupel’s leadership. The future is certainly bright for both Daune Morris and Tennessee football.