Oregon Ducks signee Dakorien Moore drops 2-word reaction to Alabama signee Keelon Russell’s National honor

Dakorien Moore, Oregon’s wide receiver for the class of 2025, took to Instagram to celebrate Alabama signee Keelon Russell’s recognition as the Maxwell National High School Player of the Year. On Friday, he posted a story with the caption:

Both athletes hail from Duncanville High School, where they formed a formidable duo before heading to different collegiate powerhouses. The Maxwell Football Club honored Russell after a stellar senior season that saw him lead Duncanville to a 13-1 record, falling just short in the 6A Division I state semifinals in a narrow 36-34 loss to North Crowley.

Russell’s 2024 stats were nothing short of extraordinary: he completed 238 of 343 passes for 4,177 yards and 55 touchdowns, with four interceptions. On the ground, he added 321 rushing yards and three scores, cementing his reputation as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback. Over his high school career, Russell racked up more than 7,400 passing yards, 90 touchdowns, and two state championships.

Russell, a five-star recruit and the nation’s second-ranked player in the class of 2025 per the 247Sports Composite, initially committed to SMU in 2023 before flipping to Alabama on June 4, 2024. The 6-foot-4, 181-pound quarterback drew offers from elite programs, including Texas A&M, Oregon and Florida.

Despite interest from Alabama, Georgia, and others, Moore committed to Oregon on July 4, 2024.

Russell’s Maxwell honor places him among elite company, including Bryce Young and Derrick Henry. Past winners also feature Trevor Lawrence and Jeremiah Smith, highlighting the award’s prestigious legacy since its inception in 2007.

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Texas roots and brotherhood: Milroe praises Alabama signee Keelon Russell

Jalen Milroe, Alabama’s redshirt junior quarterback, had high praise for fellow Texan and Crimson Tide signee Keelon Russell. Reflecting on their shared roots and Russell’s potential, Milroe said (via AL.com):

“I enjoy being around him. I’ve been able to meet him a couple times here at the facility and at the stadium. Cool cat. Every single time I get to talk to him I like to pour into him, because that’s the biggest thing, just being able to talk to a guy that’s been in the process before. That’s something I try to do for him is give him my knowledge, since I’ve been here and pour into him.”

Ranked as the No. 2 quarterback in the 2025 class by 247Sports Composite, he has consistently impressed with his skill and character.

“He’s a special cat. There’s a reason why he’s the No. 1 quarterback in the state of Texas, in the country. He’s a big-time recruit because of who is as a person.”

Milroe also emphasized their Texas connection.

“To have another Texas guy in the building is going to be awesome. I know he’s going to be coached absolutely at his best by coach (Nick) Sheridan, coach (Kalen) DeBoer. So he’s in good hands here.”

Russell’s 2023 season stats reflect his immense talent: a 74% completion rate, 3,267 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, three interceptions, 304 rushing yards and four rushing scores, per MaxPreps.