After months of buzz and growing confidence from Rebel supporters, Craig Tutt has finally pulled the trigger on Ole Miss. Tutt, a four-star defensive back from Murfreesboro, Tennessee committed to Ole Miss over Tennessee, Auburn and other power programs, he announced Friday, according to On3. As the ninth-ranked safety in the country, Tutt was heavily pursued by top programs.
Top 10 Recruit Decides Ole Miss Over Tennessee, Auburn originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
After months of buzz and growing confidence from Rebel supporters, Craig Tutt has finally pulled the trigger on Ole Miss.
Tutt, a four-star defensive back from Murfreesboro, Tennessee committed to Ole Miss over Tennessee, Auburn and other power programs, he announced Friday, according to On3.
As the ninth-ranked safety in the country, Tutt was heavily pursued by top programs. But what set Ole Miss apart, he said, was the program's family-oriented culture—something that stood out to him throughout the recruiting process.
"Just that their ability to develop you. They're going to coach you, they're going to love you and it's just that culture. You never go wrong," he told On3. "I talked to some of the freshmen and they said it was the best decision they ever made and I've seen it. They're going to make sure you're straight and take care of you. It's real family oriented. When I say that, I really mean it. You can tell it's family as soon as you walk in. It's not a forced welcome. You feel welcome as soon as you walk through the door."
Tutt becomes the fifth four-star prospect to join Ole Miss' elite 2026 recruiting class.
Like several of the Rebels' other top commits, he emphasized the coaching staff's vision for his development, particularly their plan to utilize his versatility to the highest extent.
"They see me as very versatile. I had a lot of meetings. I can play corner, I can play the nickel spot, I can play both safeties. Just them seeing me to be so versatile, I like that," he said.
Standing at 6-feet and known for his ability to cover in space and be a factor against the run, Tutt is expected to be a key piece in Pete Golding's flexible defensive system.
Tutt's addition marks another win for Lane Kiffin's staff—and boosts Ole Miss even higher in the national 2026 recruiting rankings.
Related: Top Ranked QB Shuts The Door on Ole Miss
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
