Four-Star Safety Lagonza Hayward Decommits from Tennessee
In a significant blow to Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting efforts, four-star safety Lagonza Hayward announced his decommitment just days before the early signing period. Rumors of his potential departure had been circulating for some time, although Hayward had previously dismissed them publicly.
Hayward shared his decision on X, stating, “Thankful for Volnation and coaches for support and the trust they put in me, but I have prayed on it for a long time. So respect my decision, but I will be decommitting from The University of Tennessee.”
Ranked as the 72nd overall prospect in the class of 2025 by the 247Sports Composite, Hayward initially committed to Tennessee on July 27. Despite his pledge, Georgia and Florida have remained prominent contenders for the Georgia native throughout his recruitment.
Hayward’s departure drops Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class to ninth nationally, according to 247Sports. The Volunteers now have three-star Sidney Walton as their only committed safety in the class. In response, Tennessee’s coaching staff has been actively pursuing Miami commit Timothy Merritt, a three-star prospect, as a potential replacement for Hayward.
The early signing period begins Wednesday, December 4, and concludes Friday, December 6, leaving Tennessee with limited time to secure additional commitments. Hayward’s decision underscores the fluid nature of recruiting and adds pressure on the Volunteers to strengthen their class before the window closes.
Leave a Reply