Luther Burden III, one of the top-rated wide receivers in the country, has officially decommitted from the University of Missouri, creating a ripple effect in the college football recruiting world. Burden, a 5-star recruit from East St. Louis, Illinois, had previously pledged his commitment to Mizzou in 2022, but after careful consideration and weighing his options, he has flipped his commitment to the Texas Longhorns.
The decision is a major shake-up for the University of Missouri, which had hoped to secure Burden’s services to bolster their offense. Burden’s decommitment ends a nearly two-year relationship with Mizzou, and his flip to Texas adds another star to the Longhorns’ already impressive recruiting class. Texas had long been considered one of the frontrunners for Burden’s signature, but they faced stiff competition from Alabama and Tennessee, who had also been in the hunt for the talented receiver.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound wideout is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying playmakers in the 2025 recruiting class. Burden possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and agility that makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. He excels at making contested catches, separating from defenders with his speed, and showcasing exceptional route-running ability. Burden’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays has made him one of the most sought-after players in the nation.
Burden’s recruitment was a closely watched saga, with Mizzou initially appearing to have the edge due to his strong connections to the school. However, Texas was able to capitalize on its rich football tradition, competitive program, and the opportunity to play for a national championship contender. The Longhorns have been on the rise in recent seasons, and Burden’s decision to join their program is a testament to their growth and appeal to top-tier recruits.
For Mizzou, losing Burden is a tough blow, especially considering the local connection and the excitement his commitment had generated within the fan base. The Tigers had hoped to build their offense around Burden’s talents, but with his decommitment, they will need to pivot and look for other options to continue to improve their recruiting efforts.
Ultimately, Burden’s flip to Texas strengthens an already impressive recruiting class for the Longhorns, and it will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the college football landscape in the coming years.