Breaking News: Five-Star Recruit Turns Down $6.7 Million Offer, Decommits from Mountaineer, Chooses Tennessee Over Georgia Bulldogs and Notre Dame
In a groundbreaking development that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape, a highly coveted five-star recruit has made a stunning decision: turning down a $6.7 million NIL offer, decommitting from the West Virginia Mountaineers, and committing to the Tennessee Volunteers over powerhouse programs like the Georgia Bulldogs and Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
The recruit at the center of this unprecedented move is none other than Deuce Knight, a quarterback sensation from the 2025 recruiting class. Knight, who has been a standout at his high school in Mississippi, has garnered national attention for his exceptional arm strength, poise under pressure, and leadership on the field. His recruitment has been one of the most closely watched stories of the cycle.
Knight’s decision came after months of intense recruitment by some of the nation’s top programs. The West Virginia Mountaineers, under head coach Neal Brown, were the first to secure a commitment from Knight. However, the Mountaineers faced stiff competition from the likes of Georgia, Notre Dame, and Tennessee.
Each program presented its own unique appeal. Georgia, with its rich football tradition and recent national championship success, offered Knight the opportunity to compete for immediate playing time in the SEC. Notre Dame, known for its storied history and academic prestige, promised a platform to showcase his talents on a national stage. Tennessee, under head coach Josh Heupel, boasted an up-tempo offense and a passionate fan base eager for a return to prominence.
The financial aspect of recruitment also played a significant role. Reports indicate that West Virginia extended a $6.7 million NIL package to Knight, a figure that would have made him one of the highest-paid college athletes in the country. Despite the allure of such a substantial offer, Knight ultimately chose to pursue his collegiate career elsewhere.
After careful consideration and discussions with his family and advisors, Knight announced his decision to decommit from West Virginia and commit to the Tennessee Volunteers. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Knight expressed his gratitude to the Mountaineers for their early belief in him but emphasized his desire to be part of a program with championship aspirations.
Knight’s commitment to Tennessee is seen as a significant coup for the Volunteers. The addition of a five-star quarterback to their roster not only bolsters their offense but also sends a strong message about the program’s resurgence under Coach Heupel.
The reactions from the programs involved have been swift and varied. West Virginia expressed disappointment but wished Knight the best in his future endeavors. Georgia and Notre Dame, while respectful, acknowledged the competitive nature of the recruitment process and reaffirmed their commitment to building championship-caliber teams.
Tennessee’s coaching staff, led by Coach Heupel, welcomed Knight with open arms. “We are thrilled to have Deuce join the Volunteer family,” Heupel said in a statement. “His talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a quarterback.”
Knight’s decision marks a significant moment in college football recruiting. The combination of a substantial NIL offer and the allure of competing at a high level led to a bidding war among top programs. Knight’s choice underscores the growing influence of NIL in shaping recruitment decisions and the need for programs to adapt to this new landscape.
Moreover, Knight’s commitment to Tennessee adds another layer of intrigue to the SEC’s already competitive environment. The Volunteers’ offense, known for its high-paced tempo, will now feature a quarterback with the potential to elevate it to new heights.
Looking Ahead
As Knight prepares to join the Tennessee Volunteers, all eyes will be on his development and impact on the program. His decision has not only reshaped his future but also altered the trajectory of several college football programs. The ripple effects of this move will be felt throughout the sport for years to come.
In conclusion, Deuce Knight’s decision to turn down a $6.7 million NIL offer, decommit from the West Virginia Mountaineers, and commit to the Tennessee Volunteers is a landmark moment in college football recruiting. It highlights the evolving dynamics of recruitment and the increasing importance of NIL in the decision-making process. As Knight embarks on his collegiate journey, the college football world will be watching closely to see how this bold move unfolds.
