USF dips into Texas, lands 2025 RB with multiple Power Conference offers

Alex Golesh and the USF Bulls have accomplished a big recruiting feat, landing Argyle (Texas) Liberty Christian class of 2025 running back Chase Garnett.

The 5-9, 200-pounder adds to an offensive class for USF that includes a quarterback (Locklan Hewlett) and wide receiver (Jeremiah Koger) who flipped their respective pledges from Wake Forest to the Bulls. And Garnett announced his pledge to USF over offers from the likes of Boise State, Arizona, Minnesota, Tulsa and others.

“I chose USF because I really love the coaching staff, and I know Coach Golesh and Coach [Micah] James will be able to develop me and help me perform to the best of my abilities,” Garnett told On3 before announcing his decision. “I also love the direction the program is going in with them building all brand new facilities, new stadium and going into a new power conference, I feel like it’s a great set up for me to be successful.”

James, who joined the Bulls’ staff as running backs coach in February, and graduate assistant running backs coach Kumehnnu Gwilly were important figures in Garnett’s recruitment.

“They showed genuine interest,” Garnett added. “They want me to be there and want to coach me. I also feel that their coaching particular coaching styles can help me develop into an even better well-rounded back.”

Garnett took two June official visits. He saw Boise State the weekend of June 14 and was at USF the following weekend. His trip to Tampa was not only his first time seeing USF but his first time in the state of Florida.

“The city of Tampa was really beautiful and was definitely a place I could see myself living and having fun in, while also being able to make a name for myself and having a huge fan base and city supporting me,” he said.

“I’m extremely excited about the direction that USF is heading, and I’m excited to see what I can do to help them turn into one of the best programs around. I see the program going nowhere but up with the investments that the school is making it to the program and the coaches are making into the players.

USF is fired up about the addition of Garnett. Sources tell On3 that Garnett has the chance to be “really special” in the Bulls’ offense. The Rivals three-star recruit is powerful, dynamic, intelligent and a natural playmaker.

“I am a well-rounded, every-down back who can break out a long run or fight for short yardage,” Garnett stated. “I’m also useful in the passing game, though that is not my main strength. I also am useful in the pass blocking game being able to pick up blitzing linebackers and stand my ground while protecting the quarterback.”

Garnett is USF’s 23rd overall commitment and first running back pledge of its 2025 class, which ranks No. 1 in the American Athletic Conference.