"My recruitment is still open" - SMU 4-star QB commit Keelon Russell open to 'flip' despite pledge to Mustangs

By Aman Sharma

Modified May 29, 2024 19:18 GMT

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Duncanville (Texas) High School's standout quarterback Keelon Russell is among the most sought-after prospects in the 2025 class. Although the four-star QB has been verbally committed to SMU since last September, Russell keeps his recruitment options open. He has considered offers from Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss and Oregon.

Russell, who attended the second-annual On3 Elite Series in the Music City, shared insights into his decision-making process.

"My recruitment is still open," he said. "I'm just waiting to see a college who can really flip me. If not, SMU is home."

Despite his commitment to the Mustangs, Russell acknowledges the potential allure of other top programs.

"If I feel like SMU is where I want to be and SMU is where I want to go, SMU is looking like a great future."

"We’re getting top dudes. I looked the other day we’re like (Top 25) in the class of 2025. We’re most likely building at SMU but there are schools like Bama, Oregon, Florida that have chances to flip me."

The On3 Industry ranked Russell as the nation’s No. 8 quarterback and No. 85 prospect. He has become a priority for Kalen DeBoer and the Crimson Tide staff.

"Oh man, Bama has been one of those schools, it has the top things to make me flip," Russell said.

Reflecting on his interactions with Alabama's coaching staff, Keelon Russell remarked:

"When I got on a Zoom call with Coach (Nick) Sheridan, I’m seeing a connection. Seeing him break down plays, seeing him break down coverages, you can feel it almost."

Eager to visit the campus, Russell added:

"Getting down to Bama is going to be one of the big things. It’s one of the bigger opportunities for me. It’s going to be really important and I can’t wait to see what’s down there. Can’t wait to see the coaches and build a relationship with all the student-athletes and get to learn stuff and meet Coach DeBoer in person."

Keelon Russell: Alabama, Florida and Oregon pursuing SMU commit

Alabama, Florida and Oregon are making strong cases to flip four-star SMU commit Keelon Russell, who led Duncanville to a Texas state championship. Alabama has been particularly persuasive.

“When you have coaches like that blowing up your phone it shows a lot,” Russell said. “The staff coming from Washington is a real big thing. I’ve seen what they did with Michael Penix. I know they’re going to get me to the highest level.”

Florida is set for a visit on June 7. Russell has built strong relationships with coaches Billy Napier and Ryan O’Hara.

“Coach O’Hara’s been sending me footwork drills and form drills,” Russell noted.

Oregon will host Keelon Russell on June 21. Coach Dan Lanning and the Ducks are eager for Russell to join Akili Smith Jr.

“Bo Nix was a playmaker for sure. I know the developmental piece will be taken care of. They run a lot of NFL stuff that will get me ready,” Russell said.

Last season, Russell completed over 74% of his passes for 3,267 yards and 35 touchdowns, with just three interceptions. He also rushed for 304 yards and four touchdowns.