Mizzou adds a third consecutive Independence Day commitment in Tony Forney.
Mizzou football fans might have a new favorite holiday: Independence Day.
The team made an Fourth of July signing for the third consecutive season as coach Eli Drinkwitz brought on three-star safety Tony Forney. In 2023, the Tigers earned commitments from wide receiver James Madison II and cornerback Cameron Keys. In 2024, the team earned a commitment from wide receiver Jayvan Boggs.
Forney announced his decision through an X post in the afternoon on July 4.
No place like HOME @MizzouFootball pic.twitter.com/x9TantOaUT
— Tony Forney Jr. (@TonyForney_) July 4, 2025
The 5’11 safety joins three-star linebacker Keenan Harris as the second defensive pieces so far In the 2026 recruiting class.
The Marietta, Georgia product found two interceptions — both in the same game — during his junior season. Forney also made his presence found on special teams, blocking a punt and a field goal. He played strong press coverage, leading to overthrown balls from quarterbacks, and he has good patience when making tackles. It’ll be cool to see him take his game to the next level during his senior season.
Alongside his teammate, three-star 2026 safety Jowell Combay, Kell High School had one of the state’s best secondaries. The teams playoff run was cut short in the second round of the GHSA Class 4A playoff, but Forney and Combay will be back for revenge during their final seasons.
Where He Fits: Forney slots in as a two-way player for the Tigers. Somebody who can not only play defensive in the secondary, but also be a major piece in the special teams. A lot of Forney’s strongest plays during his junior season came on special teams, one resulting in a touchdown, and I could see that translating well to SEC football.
When He Plays: As one-of-two defensive players in Mizzou’s 2026 recruiting class, he’s likely to get a chance early on. With Daylan Carnell and Jalen Cantalon entering their final seasons of eligibility, spots will be open for incoming players. Marvin Burks Jr. has two years of eligibility left and is expected to start the season at the strong safety position. The team also currently has players like CJ Bass III, Mose Phillips III, Rico Merriweather and Jackson Hancock who could hear their names called in the future. Ultimately, there’s always people to beat when you come in as a freshman, but Forney will likely be competing against others that are also fighting for a first time starting spot. This puts Forney in a good situation to get eyes on him early.
What It Means: This is a solid pickup for Drinkwitz and company, but its hard to tell what it really means because of how prominent the transfer portal has become. Jalen Cantalon transferred from UNLV on January 5 and is now expected to be the teams starting free safety. So while a lot is still unknown, Mizzou fans should take all the commitments in the 2026 class as a win as there aren’t as many as past years.