In a stunning development on the recruiting trail, elite 2025 running back Daune Morris has officially flipped his commitment from the University of Southern California (USC) to the University of Tennessee. The move marks a major win for the Volunteers and head coach Josh Heupel, who continue to strengthen their reputation as a rising force in college football.
Morris, a dynamic playmaker from Dallas, Texas, had been committed to USC since earlier this year. However, after months of persistent efforts by Tennessee’s coaching staff, Morris has decided to take his talents to Knoxville, citing a better fit both on and off the field.
Daune Morris is a consensus four-star recruit and one of the top running backs in the 2025 class. Standing at 5ā11ā and weighing 200 pounds, Morris possesses a rare combination of speed, power, and vision that makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
In his junior season, Morris rushed for over 1,800 yards and 24 touchdowns while adding another 300 yards as a receiver. His ability to break tackles, find the open field, and contribute in the passing game has drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Saquon Barkley and Alvin Kamara.
Morris is ranked among the top 10 running backs in the 2025 cycle by multiple recruiting services and was heavily pursued by several Power Five programs. His decision to join Tennessee is a massive boost for the Volsā 2025 recruiting class, which continues to climb the rankings.
Morrisā decision to flip his commitment was influenced by several factors, including Tennesseeās offensive system, his relationship with the coaching staff, and the programās overall trajectory.
1. Fit in Tennesseeās Offense
Josh Heupelās fast-paced, high-scoring offense is a perfect match for Morrisā skill set. Tennesseeās ability to create space for running backs in both the run and passing game appealed to Morris, who thrives as an all-purpose back.
āTennesseeās offense is explosive, and I feel like I can do a lot of damage in that system,ā Morris said in his announcement. āCoach Heupel and Coach Mack (Jerry Mack, Tennesseeās running backs coach) have shown me how I can be a focal point in their game plan.ā
2. Relationship with the Coaching Staff
Tennesseeās staff was relentless in their pursuit of Morris, building a strong relationship with him and his family throughout the recruiting process. The personal touch, combined with a clear vision for his development, was instrumental in swaying Morris to Rocky Top.
3. Program Momentum
Tennesseeās resurgence under Josh Heupel has not gone unnoticed. The Volsā return to national prominence, highlighted by a win over Alabama in 2022 and a 2023 Orange Bowl appearance, has made them an attractive destination for top recruits. Morris sees Tennessee as a program on the rise, with a legitimate chance to compete for SEC and national titles.
With Morris in the fold, Tennesseeās 2025 recruiting class now boasts one of the top offensive weapons in the country. His commitment solidifies the Volsā standing as a major player in the SEC recruiting landscape, as they continue to attract elite talent from across the nation.
Morris is expected to be a centerpiece of Tennesseeās offensive plans when he arrives on campus, with the potential to contribute immediately as a freshman. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver gives the Vols a dynamic weapon who can create mismatches against any defense.
Losing Morris is a significant blow for USC, which had been counting on him to be a key part of its 2025 class. While the Trojans remain a recruiting powerhouse under Lincoln Riley, this flip highlights the competitive nature of recruiting in the modern era.
Daune Morrisā decision to flip his commitment from USC to Tennessee is a game-changer for the Vols. It not only bolsters their 2025 class but also sends a strong message to the rest of the SEC: Tennessee is here to compete at the highest level.
For Vol Nation, Morrisā commitment represents hope for a bright future on Rocky Top. The dynamic running back is poised to become a cornerstone of Tennesseeās offense and a key figure in the programās quest for sustained success.