The Kansas football programs have both enjoyed one of the best weeks on the recruiting trail in recent memory. Bill Self signed a three-man class consisting of Darryn Peterson, Bryson Tiller, and Samis Calderon, while Lance Leipold reeled in dual-sport athlete Jaden Nickens, who becomes the highest-rated Jayhawk in the 2025 class.
But that's not all. Leipold and Co. have continued to make strides, recently flipping Notre Dame pledge Justin Thurman to KU. After breaking off his 1+ year commitment to the Fighting Irish, Thurman became the second running back to commit to KU.
Back to where it all began, the journey continues…
— Justin Thurman-THURMANATOR ™️ (@JAT_2025) November 18, 2024
Jeremiah 29:11🙏🏽
After careful consideration and reflection, I have decided to flip my commitment to the University of Kansas 📍🔵 #RockChalk @KU_Football pic.twitter.com/7Vdgypc2Vm
Kansas football flips former Notre Dame RB pledge
The 5-foot-11, 185-pound tailback attends Jesuit High School in Tampa. 247 Sports Composite rankings list him as the No. 480 recruit in the country, though he has struggled to hit his stride as a senior. Many recruiting outlets bumped his ranking down.
Thurman joins John Kelly as KU's other commit running back commit. These two recruits could play a big part in the offense's future with standout bell-cow back Devin Neal set to graduate following the 2024 campaign. Daniel Hishaw and Sevion Morrison are expected to lead the backfield next season.