BREAKING NEWS: 5-Star WR Luther Burden III Decommits from Missouri, Flips Commitment to Alabama Crimson Over Penn State and Tennessee
Luther Burden III, a 5-star wide receiver and one of the most coveted recruits of the 2023 class, has officially decommitted from the University of Missouri and flipped his commitment to the Alabama Crimson Tide, marking a major shift in the college football recruiting landscape. Burden, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, had long been a verbal commit to Missouri, his home-state school, but after a change of heart, he has chosen to pursue his football career with Alabama, one of college football’s most prestigious programs.
Burden’s decision to decommit from Missouri comes as a surprise to many, as he had been strongly linked with the Tigers for months. However, the allure of Alabama’s storied football tradition, coaching expertise, and ability to develop wide receivers for the NFL proved too strong. Alabama, under head coach Nick Saban, has built a dynasty, consistently competing for national championships and producing top-tier talent in the NFL. The Crimson Tide’s success in recent years, particularly on the offensive side of the ball, was a key factor in Burden’s final decision.
The recruiting battle for Burden came down to Alabama, Penn State, and Tennessee, all of which made a strong push for the 5-star prospect. Penn State, under head coach James Franklin, has also been known for developing top receivers and has made waves in recruiting, while Tennessee has seen a resurgence in recent seasons, with a high-powered offense under Josh Heupel. Despite their best efforts, Burden chose Alabama, signaling his belief in the program’s ability to get him to the next level.
Burden is widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in the country, boasting elite speed, agility, and ball-handling skills. Standing at 6 feet, 1 inch, and weighing around 200 pounds, he has the physical tools to be a game-changer at the collegiate level. As a senior at East St. Louis High School, he posted jaw-dropping numbers, showcasing his ability to dominate both as a pass catcher and a playmaker after the catch. His versatility and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the Alabama offense, which has utilized dynamic wide receivers like DeVonta Smith, Jerry Jeudy, and Henry Ruggs in recent years.
The commitment to Alabama is a major victory for the Crimson Tide’s recruiting efforts, especially given the fierce competition from other elite programs. It also serves as a testament to Nick Saban’s continued ability to attract top-tier talent, even in an era where many players are seeking opportunities close to home. Burden’s commitment solidifies Alabama’s position as one of the top recruiting programs in the nation, and the excitement surrounding his potential impact in Tuscaloosa will only add to the program’s already strong reputation.
For Missouri, this decommitment marks a tough loss, as they had hoped to keep Burden in-state as the cornerstone of their recruiting class. Despite this, the Tigers remain focused on building their program and continue to search for other top recruits to bolster their roster. For Burden, his decision represents a major step in his football journey, and his commitment to Alabama will certainly make waves as he prepares to join one of college football’s most elite teams.