The Tennessee Volunteers have scored a significant recruiting victory with the flip of 2025 running back Daune Morris from Southern California. Morris, a standout from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, had initially committed to USC earlier this year but announced his decision to join the Vols on Wednesday, sending waves of excitement through the Volunteer fanbase.
Ranked as the No. 8 all-purpose back in the nation by Rivals, Morris brings dynamic versatility and game-changing potential to a Tennessee program eager to continue building its roster with top-tier talent. His decision represents a homecoming of sorts, as the in-state star will now have the opportunity to shine on Rocky Top.
Daune Morris has been a force on the field throughout his high school career at Oakland High School in Murfreesboro. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 190 pounds, Morris combines speed, agility, and power to create a well-rounded skill set. His ability to excel both as a runner and a receiver makes him a perfect fit for modern offenses.
In his junior season, Morris put up eye-popping numbers, rushing for over 1,500 yards and adding 400 receiving yards. His explosiveness and vision have earned him recognition as one of the top backs in the 2025 recruiting cycle. Morris is known for his ability to break long runs, make defenders miss in space, and contribute in the passing game, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
While his initial commitment to USC signaled an interest in playing on the West Coast under Lincoln Riley, the pull of staying closer to home and playing in front of family and friends was a major factor in Morris’s flip to Tennessee. In his announcement, Morris highlighted the relationship he built with Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel and the entire Vols coaching staff as a key reason for his decision.
“Tennessee feels like home,” Morris said. “The coaches believe in me, and I believe in the vision they have for this program. Playing in front of the best fans in college football is something I couldn’t pass up.”
Tennessee’s offensive scheme, which emphasizes creativity and versatility, is another reason Morris decided to flip. The Vols’ high-powered attack under Heupel is tailored to maximize the talents of playmakers like Morris, who can thrive in both traditional running plays and as a receiver out of the backfield.
The addition of Daune Morris gives Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class a significant boost. The Vols have been steadily climbing in the rankings, and landing one of the top all-purpose backs in the country will only enhance their standing.
Morris joins an impressive group of commits, and his flip from a powerhouse like USC sends a strong message about Tennessee’s ability to compete for elite talent on the national stage. It also highlights the growing appeal of the Vols’ program under Heupel, who has revitalized Tennessee football with a combination of innovative coaching and relentless recruiting.
Daune Morris will have one more season at Oakland High School to continue showcasing his talents and preparing for the college level. As he transitions to Tennessee, expectations will be high for the explosive playmaker to make an immediate impact in Knoxville.
Morris has the skill set to thrive in the SEC, and his commitment to Tennessee represents a major win for a program that continues to trend upward. With his ability to contribute as a runner, receiver, and even a returner, Morris could become a cornerstone of the Vols’ offense for years to come.
Flipping Daune Morris from USC is a testament to the work of Tennessee’s coaching staff and the allure of playing in the SEC. For the Volunteers, adding an elite talent like Morris is another step toward competing for championships and reestablishing Tennessee as a perennial contender.
As Morris prepares to take the field at Neyland Stadium, Vol Nation has every reason to be excited about what the future holds. The flip is not just a win for Tennessee football—it’s a statement.