Duke commit Nate Sheppard, a promising three-star from Louisiana, sustained a season-ending injury just days before he was set to visit Ole Miss. Sheppard, rated as the No. 61 running back in the nation and the No. 30 player in Louisiana’s 2025 recruiting class, had planned to attend Ole Miss’ home game against Oklahoma last Saturday, where the Rebels ultimately clinched a 26-14 victory. Unfortunately, Sheppard’s plans were disrupted by a severe injury, which will not only end his junior season but also postpone any future campus visits as he begins the recovery process.
Standing out as a running back in his high school league, Sheppard caught the eye of Duke’s coaching staff early on with his explosive play and remarkable agility. His commitment to Duke represents a significant pickup for the Blue Devils, as they continue to build a competitive recruiting class for the 2025 season. Sheppard’s mix of speed, power, and field vision made him one of the most highly regarded prospects in Louisiana, and he was widely expected to bring an immediate impact to Duke’s offensive backfield.
However, his injury is a setback for the young prospect, who will now focus on his rehabilitation and recovery in hopes of returning to full strength before joining Duke in 2025.
Duke head coach Mike Elko and the Blue Devils staff remain confident in Sheppard’s long-term potential, expressing full support for his recovery journey. Despite his unfortunate injury, Sheppard’s commitment to Duke remains firm.
As for Ole Miss, Sheppard’s planned visit underscores the broader recruitment interest he has generated, attracting attention from several SEC programs. With a year left before his college debut, Sheppard’s focus will now be on recovering to reach his full potential on the field. His determination and resilience, both as a player and an individual, leave his supporters optimistic about his future success in college football.
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