Running back Raleek Brown announces commitment to Tempe
Kenny Dillingham has made fundraising and recruiting a priority entering his first offseason as head of the Sun Devil football program. Former USC running back and five-star athlete announced his commitment to Tempe on Saturday via social media.
#COMMITTED pic.twitter.com/OPaaP22nz9
— RALEEK BROWN (@raleek2) December 16, 2023
Brown visited Tempe just days before announcing his commitment, but knew his decision before that.
“I had a feeling before the visit that I was gonna commit,” Brown said, “I just wanted to check it out and make sure everything was smooth, and everything turned out good. I had good conversations with Coach Dillingham and Coach Samples before the visit. I know Coach Dillingham has a good background and puts a lot of backs in the league. I like Coach Marcus’ (Arroyo) offense because it’s like an NFL offense and knows to give the right players the ball in space.”
Brown was the No. 69-ranked overall prospect in 2022, No. 3 running back in California, where he played at Mater Dei, and was the No. 7 overall athlete in the state.
He is now the highest rated recruit for Dillingham since taking over a year ago.
The 5-foot-9, 170-pound back will act as dynamic one-two punch with Cam Skattebo. Brown offers great speed, agility and attacks edge to spread the field, a source familiar with USC’s program said.
However, Brown’s decision to hit the transfer portal came down to his strong desire to play running back, which his touches ast said position were limited, and his future in broadcasting. Arizona State checks both boxes for Brown.
In two seasons as a Trojan, Brown had 243 yards and four scores on the ground with 193 receiving yards with three scores. As a punt returner, Brown averaged just over 21 yards per return (21.5).
“The coaches told me that they needed some speed, and that’s what they got,” he said. “They’re gonna move all over all over the place, put me in the slot, motion sweeps, screens…all type of stuff. So that’s what we went over today when they showed me the cut-ups. I think this offense will be a better fit for me because they will balance the run and the pass. And they’re gonna have me return kicks and punts.
“I’m always aiming for having high expectations,” Brown explained. “I’m aiming to try to turn this program around.”