In a stunning move that has shaken the recruiting world, 2025 five-star running back Daune Morris has officially flipped his commitment from the University of Southern California (USC) to the University of Tennessee. The highly sought-after prospect made his decision public, sending shockwaves through the college football landscape and immediately elevating Tennessee’s recruiting class. Morris, a standout talent from Florida, had been committed to USC for several months, but after much deliberation, he chose to join the Volunteers over the Trojans, marking a significant shift in the college football recruiting landscape.

 

### Morris’ Journey to Tennessee

 

Daune Morris’ recruitment had been one of the most closely followed stories of the 2025 class. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound running back is known for his explosive speed, vision, and ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces. His talents quickly garnered attention from some of the biggest programs in college football. Morris had initially committed to USC, a school with a rich history of producing elite running backs and competing at the highest levels. However, over time, questions began to arise about his long-term fit with the Trojans, leading to doubts that ultimately prompted him to reconsider his decision.

 

Morris’ change of heart came after multiple visits to Tennessee’s campus, where he was impressed by the Volunteers’ coaching staff, facilities, and the team’s recent trajectory under head coach Josh Heupel. Heupel’s high-octane offense, which has been a key factor in Tennessee’s success in recent years, was a major selling point for Morris. Tennessee’s style of play, which emphasizes explosive plays and a fast-paced offense, fits perfectly with Morris’ skill set, making the Volunteers an attractive option for the talented running back.

 

“I felt like Tennessee was the best fit for me,” Morris said in an interview after announcing his decision. “The coaching staff, the offense, and the atmosphere—they all just felt right. I’m excited to be part of something special here.”

 

Tennessee has quickly become a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and with Morris’ commitment, the Volunteers are poised to continue their rise. Heupel has built a program that is not only competitive but also capable of challenging the traditional powers of college football, including Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. Morris’ decision to join the Volunteers is a strong statement that Tennessee is ready to compete with the best and has the talent to make a significant impact in the SEC for years to come.

 

### Why Tennessee?

 

Tennessee’s appeal to Morris was multi-faceted. First, there’s the team’s style of play, which has been a major selling point for many high-profile recruits. The Vols’ offense, led by Heupel, is known for its ability to stretch the field and create explosive plays. Running backs in such systems often get plenty of touches, both in the running and passing game, and Morris fits the mold of a player who can excel in that type of fast-paced environment. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield and make defenders miss in the open field would make him a dynamic weapon in Tennessee’s offense.

 

Additionally, Morris had the chance to get to know the Tennessee coaching staff during his visits. He spoke highly of the relationships he developed with the coaches, particularly running backs coach Jerry Mack, who has a reputation for developing top-tier running backs. “Coach Mack is a great guy, and I know he’ll help me take my game to the next level,” Morris said. The chemistry between the coaches and Morris was a key factor in his decision to flip his commitment.

 

Another important factor was Tennessee’s growing reputation as a program on the rise. The Volunteers have been steadily improving under Heupel, and their recent success, including a trip to the College Football Playoff, has made them an appealing destination for top recruits. The prospect of joining a program with such momentum and competing at the highest level was clearly a major draw for Morris.

 

### Impact on Tennessee’s Recruiting Class

 

Morris’ flip is a massive win for Tennessee, as it not only strengthens their 2025 recruiting class but also sends a message to other recruits about the direction the program is heading. The Volunteers now have one of the top running backs in the country on board, and Morris’ commitment could be the catalyst for more high-profile players to join him in Knoxville.

 

Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class was already shaping up to be one of the best in the SEC, but adding a player of Morris’ caliber takes it to the next level. Morris is expected to be an immediate contributor for the Vols, and his addition could help solidify the team’s offensive attack for the coming years.

 

In a competitive recruiting environment where programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State are consistently landing top talent, Tennessee’s ability to secure a commitment from a player like Daune Morris is a testament to the strength of their program and coaching staff. As the Vols continue to build their roster, Morris’ commitment is sure to be a cornerstone piece that they can build around.

 

### Looking Ahead

 

As the 2025 recruiting cycle continues to unfold, Tennessee’s recruiting momentum is expected to only grow stronger. The addition of Morris to their class gives them a dynamic playmaker in the backfield who is capable of making an immediate impact. With the SEC being one of the most competitive conferences in college football, Tennessee will need to continue recruiting at a high level in order to compete for championships. Morris’ commitment is a significant step in that direction, and Tennessee fans are eager to see what the future holds for their football program.

 

For Daune Morris, his journey is just beginning. As he prepares to play for Tennessee, the talented running back is focused on helping the Vols achieve their goals and cementing his place among the elite running backs in college football. With his skill set and determination, Morris has the potential to be a game-changer for Tennessee, and his commitment is just the latest sign that the Volunteers are back on the rise.