BREAKING NEWS: 5-Star WR Luther Burden III Decommits from Missouri, Flips Commitment to Miami Hurricanes Over Alabama and Tennessee
In a major shake-up in college football recruiting, 5-star wide receiver Luther Burden III has officially decommitted from the University of Missouri and flipped his commitment to the University of Miami, making the Hurricanes the new favorites in his recruitment. This decision comes after a protracted recruitment process that saw Burden previously commit to Missouri, but after careful deliberation, he ultimately chose to pledge to Miami, with top programs like Alabama and Tennessee also in hot pursuit.
Burden, one of the most highly sought-after wide receivers in the 2025 recruiting class, had long been a Missouri commitment, initially making the decision in 2024. His commitment was seen as a big win for the Tigers, particularly as they continue to build their recruiting class under head coach Eli Drinkwitz. However, in the past few months, the recruitment picture changed dramatically. Burden started to explore his options further, attending games at various schools, including Alabama and Tennessee, and gaining increased attention from the Hurricanes.
Sources close to Burden’s recruitment indicated that the player had developed a strong relationship with Miami’s coaching staff, particularly with head coach Mario Cristobal, who has worked hard to establish a winning program in Coral Gables. Burden, known for his incredible speed, exceptional route-running, and ability to make highlight-reel catches, fits the mold of the playmakers that Cristobal has targeted since taking over the Hurricanes program. Miami has been making significant strides on the recruiting trail, and Burden’s decision to flip to the Hurricanes signals their growing momentum.
While Miami was considered an underdog early on in Burden’s recruitment, their persistence paid off. The Hurricanes’ ability to present a competitive program with a promising future, combined with their strong offensive system, played a pivotal role in his decision. Miami has been recruiting at a high level under Cristobal, and Burden’s commitment is a huge coup for the program, marking another step toward returning to national prominence.
Alabama and Tennessee, both perennial college football powerhouses, were also major players in the recruitment of Burden. The Crimson Tide, under Nick Saban, have consistently been one of the top destinations for elite wide receivers, while Tennessee, with their high-octane offense under Josh Heupel, provided an intriguing option as well. However, despite strong pitches from both of these programs, Burden ultimately chose to join Miami, citing the combination of the coaching staff, the fit within the offense, and the opportunity to help build something special in Coral Gables.
The news of Burden’s flip is a significant blow to Missouri, as the Tigers had hoped to keep their top recruit home. However, it also highlights the volatility of the college recruiting process and the changing dynamics of commitments. As national signing day approaches, Burden’s commitment to Miami will have ripple effects across the recruiting landscape, with other top recruits likely taking notice of the Hurricanes’ growing presence in the race for elite talent.
For Miami, landing Burden is not only a win for the immediate future but also a statement about their intentions to compete for championships in the years to come. With a player of Burden’s caliber in the fold, the Hurricanes are poised to make an even bigger splash on the national stage in the coming seasons.