**Craig Tutt, Four-Star Defensive Back from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Commits to Ole Miss Over Tennessee, Auburn, and Other Power Programs**
In a significant recruiting victory for Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels, four-star defensive back Craig Tutt announced his commitment to the University of Mississippi on Friday, choosing the Rebels over powerhouse programs such as Tennessee, Auburn, and several other top-tier schools. The announcement, reported by On3, marks a major addition to Ole Miss’s 2025 recruiting class and solidifies the program’s growing reputation as a destination for elite defensive talent.
Standing at 5’11” and weighing 170 pounds, Tutt has established himself as one of the most dynamic defensive backs in the nation. A product of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where he stars for Oakland High School, Tutt has been a highly sought-after prospect thanks to his blazing speed, elite coverage skills, and playmaking ability. His recruitment was fiercely contested, with multiple SEC programs vying for his services, but in the end, Ole Miss emerged as the winner
For Tutt, the decision to commit to Ole Miss came down to several key factors, including the program’s defensive scheme, coaching staff, and the opportunity for early playing time. Under head coach Lane Kiffin and defensive coordinator Pete Golding, the Rebels have built a defense that prioritizes speed, versatility, and aggressive play—qualities that align perfectly with Tutt’s skill set.
“I just felt like Ole Miss was the best fit for me,” Tutt said in his announcement. “The coaches made me feel like a priority, and I believe in what they’re building there. The defense they run allows DBs to make plays, and I want to be part of that.”
Tutt’s relationship with the coaching staff, particularly with cornerbacks coach Keynodo Hudson, played a pivotal role in his decision. Hudson, known for his ability to develop NFL-caliber defensive backs, has been a major factor in Ole Miss’s recent success in recruiting elite secondary talent. Tutt’s commitment is a testament to the trust he has in Hudson’s ability to refine his game and prepare him for the next level.
Landing Tutt was no easy feat for Ole Miss, as they had to fend off intense competition from some of the biggest names in college football. Tennessee, the in-state powerhouse, made a strong push to keep Tutt close to home. The Volunteers, under head coach Josh Heupel, have been ascending in the SEC, and their pitch to Tutt centered around immediate playing time and the chance to represent his home state.
Auburn was also heavily involved in Tutt’s recruitment. Hugh Freeze and the Tigers have been aggressively recruiting defensive backs, and Tutt was one of their top targets. Auburn’s tradition of producing NFL defensive backs and the allure of playing in the SEC West made them a serious contender.
Other programs, including Georgia, Florida State, and LSU, were also in the mix at various points, but Ole Miss’s persistent efforts and the program’s upward trajectory under Kiffin ultimately won out.
Tutt’s commitment is a massive win for Ole Miss’s secondary, which has been a focal point of their recent recruiting efforts. His skill set as a lockdown cornerback with elite ball skills makes him an immediate impact candidate.
Scouting reports highlight Tutt’s exceptional quickness, fluid hips, and ability to mirror receivers in man coverage. He possesses the recovery speed to stay with deep threats and the instincts to jump routes in zone schemes. Additionally, his physicality as a tackler makes him a valuable asset in run support—a trait that is increasingly important in today’s spread-heavy offenses.
Beyond his on-field abilities, Tutt brings a competitive mentality that aligns with the culture Kiffin is building in Oxford. He has been praised for his work ethic, football IQ, and leadership qualities, all of which will help him transition smoothly to the collegiate level.
Tutt’s commitment is another sign that Ole Miss is becoming a major player in the SEC recruiting landscape. Under Kiffin, the Rebels have consistently landed high-profile recruits, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The 2025 class is shaping up to be one of the best in program history, and Tutt’s pledge adds to an already impressive haul.
This recruiting success is a direct result of Ole Miss’s on-field performance in recent years. The Rebels have posted back-to-back 10-win seasons, earned New Year’s Six bowl berths, and have become a legitimate threat in the SEC West. For recruits like Tutt, the opportunity to compete for championships while playing in one of the nation’s toughest conferences is an undeniable draw.
With his commitment now official, Tutt will turn his attention to his senior season at Oakland High School, where he looks to lead his team to another state championship before enrolling early at Ole Miss. Early enrollment will give him a head start in learning the defense, acclimating to college life, and competing for early playing time.
Ole Miss fans should be excited about Tutt’s potential to contribute early in his career. Given the Rebels’ need for impact players in the secondary, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him earn meaningful snaps as a true freshman. His versatility allows him to play both outside corner and nickel, giving the coaching staff flexibility in how they deploy him.
Craig Tutt’s commitment to Ole Miss is a statement win for the program. Beating out Tennessee, Auburn, and other elite programs for a player of his caliber proves that the Rebels are a force to be reckoned with in recruiting. His addition strengthens an already talented 2025 class and reinforces the notion that Ole Miss is building something special under Lane Kiffin.
For Tutt, the journey is just beginning. If his high school career is any indication, he has the talent and drive to become a star in the SEC and beyond. Ole Miss fans should be thrilled to have him on board, and the rest of the conference should take notice—the Rebels are coming, and players like Craig Tutt are leading the charge.
