Josh Heupel's Tennessee flips elite RB from USC to the Class of 2025

Three-star running back Daune Morris flipped his commitment from USC to Tennessee's 2025 class on Monday. The Tennessee native had been committed to the Trojans since April 7 but ultimately chose to stay home and play for Josh Heupel's Volunteers.

“It is a different standard when you are an in-state recruit and you get to stay home and play for Tennessee,” Morris told On3. “Tennessee has been pushing for a while, and I have been thinking about it for a few weeks.

The move was predicted as the Vols were trending heavily for his commitment, with On3 reporting a 93.4% chance of flipping Morris ahead of his decision. One factor that played a role in Morris’ flip was a coaching change at USC. Last spring, running backs coach Jerry Mack left the Trojans, which led to uncertainty in the program’s recruitment of Morris.

However, Tennessee’s coaching staff kept the pressure on, and after visiting Knoxville for an official visit last weekend, Morris made the decision to flip to the Vols. During the visit, Tennessee hosted UTEP and secured a 56-0 win.

A key connection between Morris and Tennessee is the program's current running backs coach, De’Rail Sims. Sims had first offered Morris a scholarship when he was at Louisville, during a camp when Morris was just a freshman.

Sims maintained a strong relationship with Morris throughout his recruitment, and Morris grew comfortable with him during his visits to Knoxville. Sims was hired by Tennessee ahead of the season, which helped tip the scales in the Vols’ favor.

Morris also expressed admiration for the Vols’ offense and the opportunity to fit into a versatile running back role similar to that of current Tennessee star Dylan Sampson. He also has heavy praise for Heupel's coaching style.

“Coach Heupel is a very genuine person,” Morris said. “He understands and he knows the players well. Once you get a head coach you know and understands the players, it’s hard to beat that.”

Besides the coaching staff, Morris has developed strong relationships with several future teammates, including 2025 quarterback George MacIntyre and defensive lineman Ethan Utley.

Duane Morris is the No. 524 overall prospect and No. 43 running back in the 2025 cycle and the No. 18 player in Tennessee, according to the On3 Industry Rankings.

Tennessee and USC 2025 class update following Daune Morris' flip

Daune Morris provides Tennessee's 2025 class with its second running back, joining three-star commit Justin Baker. The cycle ranks No. 9 in the nation and No. 6 in the Southeastern Conference with 25 committed players.

Meanwhile, USC is left with 21 committed players in its 2025 class following Morris' flip. The class ranks No. 14 in the nation and is left with two running backs in Harry Dalton and Riley Wormley.