Miami interest and SEC visits updated by four-star 2025 RB Justin Thurman
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The spring days rolling into the summer months have been fruitful for Justin Thurman. Spring evaluations and summer collegiate camps have continued to push the four-star tailback up recruiting boards. Teams have laid down 20 scholarship opportunities, with the most recent coming from Purdue, and top Power Five interest is building.
One in-state program is picking up communication with the Tampa Jesuit (Fla.) product.
“Miami is showing interest,” Thurman said. “I was able to have a good conversation with coach (Tim) Harris (Jr.), their running backs coach. He said he liked what he saw on tape, liked my talent and the way I play. He said he likes my potential as well, and that he wants to build a relationship with me.”
Justin Thurman at Tennessee.
Spending time in Knoxville, Thurman was able to further bond with the Volunteers’ coaching staff.
“The Tennessee visit went great,” Thurman shared. “I had a great opportunity to camp and to see their facilities, and the campus. I spent time with coach (Jerry) Mack (RB). We talked about his philosophy, we talked about me fitting in their scheme, and how they are building the program for success.”
Thurman continued sharing his overall impressions of Tennessee’s program after the camp/visit.
“The culture and the mindset stood out,” Thurman stated. “I think coach (Josh) Heupel is doing a great job. Tennessee had a great season last year; I think they are heading in the right direction. I like how coach Mack teaches, and I like his style and his mindset for the game. I like his knowledge and wisdom about life too. Coach Mack is a great mentor and person to talk to about football and life.”
Leaving Gainesville, Thurman was impressed with the Gators’ operations and coaches.
“It was good,” Thurman said. “At their camp, I saw how coach (Jabbar) Juluke teaches the running backs. It was a great experience to work with him. I like how he coaches and his style; it was great. It was great to talk to him about the recruiting process and how they do everything. He is a great mentor and wise with his words. He is a great person to talk to if I need anything.”
Thurman left The Plains impressing the Tigers’ coaching staff.
“It was great,” Thurman shared. “Being able to work with coach Cadillac (Williams – RB) was an awesome opportunity. He told me I had a good camp. He told me that I need to fine tune everything I have in my skillset and to keep working hard. Coach Cadillac said he sees a lot of potential in me and that he sees me having a bright future. He told me they will keep building the relationship.”
The next stop for the Florida four-star is in South Bend with the Fighting Irish.
“I am very excited to get up there and to learn more about Notre Dame,” Thurman stated. “I am excited to talk to coach (Deland) McCullough (RB), to talk about his philosophy, and to see the campus and facilities. I want to get a feel for what is like at Notre Dame as a student-athlete.”
This weekend, the Iowa Hawkeyes will welcome Thurman to campus for a BBQ. After Iowa came down to see Thurman this spring, he is returning the favor to learn more about the program. The relationship ahead of the trip was detailed.
“We have a pretty good one,” Thurman said. “Coach (Ladell) Betts (RB) came down for a spring practice, he was impressed with what he saw; that is when I got their offer. The relationship is growing. We’ve had many good conversations. I am looking forward to building the relationship and having some fun.”
After the hang in Iowa City, Thurman will camp with the Crimson Tide at the end of the month.
*Click the link to read the May 28 RNG interview with Justin Thurman.