Tristen Keys is a top prize in the 2025 recruiting class. The 5-star wideout from Hattiesburg has every offer he could dream of. Now, it’s decision time. And as the nation’s No. 3 prospect via On3, he holds the keys to his future. Although the SEC seems like the straightforward landing spot, with Texas A&M, Tennessee, and Alabama battling for his commitment, don’t sleep on Miami. With Mario Cristobal making a strong push, the Hurricanes could be the dark horse that shakes up this recruitment.

Well, Mario Cristobal is set to ignite the 2025 season as the Hurricanes take the field for their first spring game on Monday. And while the spotlight will be on the players, the leading buzz might come from the stands. And a star-studded list of recruits is expected, headlined by Tristen Keys—the nation’s top WR.

With spring camps opening nationwide, Miami has the first crack at leaving a lasting mark. You know, in recruiting, first impressions can be everything.

And things went smoothly for Tristen Keys upon his return to Coral Gables earlier this month. Here, On3 insider Chad Simmons captured the moment perfectly on X, writing, “5-star WR Tristen Keys was decked out in Miami Hurricanes gear on day 1 at @overtime OT7.”

But the real question is: How strong was Miami’s impression? Keys’ own words might just say it all.

However, Keys didn’t just stop by Miami—he soaked it all in. Every moment left an impact, from watching practice to bonding with the coaches. He saw firsthand how the Hurricanes develop their receivers, and it left an impression.

“I went out there to watch them practice so I could see how they develop their receivers and it went well. They had some guys out there looking sharp and the coaches know what they are doing. The visit went great. It was good to check it out. I got to see coaches, I bonded with them, and we had some good conversations. Miami is a contender for me, and the visit showed me a lot. We got to hang out, see practice and talk some ball,” said Keys.

While Keys had everyone talking with his latest move, the star receiver hit the field at OT7, rocking Miami gloves—fueling speculation about his recruitment.

And On3’s Steve Wiltfong took notice, writing, “On3’s No. 1 WR Tristen Keys wearing the Miami gloves and shoes today at OT7. Coming off a Tennessee visit, he says the Vols are recruiting him the hardest. He loves Alabama. High on LSU and Texas A&M, among others.” As of now, was it just a style choice or a subtle hint? Either way, people couldn’t get enough of it on where Keys might head next.

However, Tristen Keys is a game-changer, and the numbers prove it. With 25 offers in his shining kitty, he’s got his pick of the best programs in the country. But don’t think Mario Cristobal’s pitch alone will seal the deal. The SEC schools have made a strong impression, too, and Keys is keeping his options wide open.

A three-team fight is brewing over Tristen Keys

Tristen Keys made his way back to Knoxville, and the Vols wasted no time reminding him why they’re a top contender. The Vols have been relentless in his recruitment, and it’s paying off. “It was great to get back and get the vibe at Tennessee again,” Keys said. “I’m familiar with those guys, both the coaches and the players, and it was good to get that bond going again.”

Moreover, the standout receiver took it into practice and loved the energy. “The intensity stood out. It was the first practice, and they went hard,” mentioned Keys. Safe to say, Tennessee has made it clear—he’s a priority, and Keys knows it.

As of now, is this shaping up to be a Vols vs. Bama showdown? Because the Tide made a sound statement earlier this year when Keys visited for Junior Day, and they’re keeping the pressure on. “That visit was big for me. Alabama is doing a great job now. I have liked Alabama for a while, but everything clicked on that visit,” Keys admitted.

However, he came away especially impressed with WRs coach JaMarcus Shephard. Afterward, the WR stated, “Coach Shep is a great coach, and Alabama has everything you want in a school.”

Not only this, the Tide’s elite standard also spoke volumes. “Alabama’s standard is high. If you go there, work to their standard, then you will go to the league,” said Keys.

To be honest, Bama is making its case loud and clear with a return visit on the horizon. Besides this, Keys has been to Texas A&M multiple times, and he’s heading back on March 29. While Holmon Wiggins’ track record with receivers has his attention, he also mentioned, “They have a great atmosphere too, and A&M has been high on my list for a while.”

So, with SEC schools in the mix, Miami has officially joined the race. Let’s see who comes out on top.