In a shocking turn of events, Missouri Tigers’ Head Coach Eli Drinkwitz confirmed today that 5-star running back recruit Nate Noel has decided to decommit from the Tigers and flip his commitment to another program. This move comes as a major blow to Missouri’s 2025 recruiting class, as Noel was one of the highest-rated players in their incoming class and was expected to make an immediate impact on the field.
The Fallout
The decision to flip his commitment comes as a surprise to many in the recruiting world. Nate Noel, who had previously announced his commitment to Missouri with much fanfare, had been widely regarded as one of the top running back prospects in the country. His combination of speed, agility, and power made him a coveted player for several top programs, and his commitment to the Tigers had been seen as a huge win for Coach Drinkwitz and his staff.
Noel’s decision to leave Missouri marks a significant change in the Tigers’ plans, as he was expected to be a cornerstone of the team’s future. Missouri has been working hard to establish itself as a contender in the competitive SEC, and securing top-tier recruits like Noel was seen as a key part of that plan.
What Led to the Departure?
While no official reason for the flip has been disclosed, insiders speculate that the decision may have been influenced by a variety of factors, including increased attention from other major programs, potential NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities, and perhaps the changing dynamics within Missouri’s football program. Several reports suggest that other schools, including some top SEC and ACC programs, were aggressively recruiting Noel and were able to offer him significant incentives, making it difficult for him to ignore their overtures.
Coach Drinkwitz, who has been known for his optimism and ability to develop talent, expressed disappointment over the loss but remained focused on moving forward. “We wish Nate the best of luck with his future. We are always committed to building a program that develops student-athletes both on and off the field, and we will continue to focus on that vision,” Drinkwitz said in a statement.
What’s Next for Missouri?
Losing a 5-star recruit is never easy, but Missouri’s coaching staff will now have to pivot and adjust their recruiting strategy. The Tigers have a solid reputation for developing running backs and have seen success with players like Larry Rountree III and Tyler Badie in recent years. With this commitment loss, Missouri will likely intensify their search for another top-tier running back to fill the void left by Noel’s departure.
As for Noel, the speculation now shifts to which program he will land at. His talents are undeniable, and there is no shortage of schools eager to land him. While no announcement has been made yet, several programs are reportedly in the running to secure his commitment, and a decision could come sooner rather than later.
Conclusion
The flip of Nate Noel is a tough pill to swallow for Missouri Tigers fans, who were hoping to see the star running back on the field in Columbia. However, Coach Drinkwitz and his staff have proven their ability to adapt and find success even in the face of adversity. As the recruiting season continues, Missouri will need to focus on making strategic moves to ensure that they remain competitive in the SEC and continue to build a championship-caliber team.
