UNDER the SCOPE: Cornerbacks

May 27, 2026

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Every season is a new season in college football since the emergence of NIL and the transfer portal. This series will break down, by position, the talent and potential of each position group.

Today, we examine Miami’s CORNERBACK room.

OVERVIEW:

Last season, Miami's cornerback room saw one of the biggest turnarounds in the history of Miami football. In 2024, the Canes’ defense, specifically the defensive backfield, was considered a major weakness that caused Miami not to make the CFP. That turnaround was astounding. Today, Miami's defensive backs are considered one of the best units in the country.

Miami carried ten cornerbacks on the 2025 roster. Through loss of eligibility, the Canes have lost Briton Allen, Charles Brantley, and Keionte Scott.

Miami prefers to carry 10 -12 CBs on the roster. Look for Miami to sign 2-3 cornerbacks in the 2027 recruiting class.

RETURNING LETTERMEN:

Miami returns seven cornerbacks from the 2025 squad including Ja'Boree Antoine, Damari Brown, Chris Ewald Jr., OJ Frederique Jr., Xavier Lucas, Ethan O'Connor, Amari Wallace.

INCOMING TRANSFERS:

Miami did not sign any transfer cornerbacks over the winter.

INCOMING FRESHMEN:

Miami signed three incoming freshmen cornerbacks in 2026, including Camdin Portis, Jaelen Waters, Brody Jennings, and Jontavius Wyman.

The ROOM: (11) (alphabetical order)

Ja'Boree Antoine

Damari Brown

Chris Ewald Jr.,

OJ Frederique Jr.

Brody Jennings

Xavier Lucas,

Ethan O'Connor,

Camdin Portis

Amari Wallace

Jaelen Waters

Jontavius Wyman

TOP RECRUITING TARGETS:

The coaching staff is always looking to the future, stashing blue chip talent. In 2027, look for Miami to take 1-2 cornerbacks in their 2027 class.

At this time, Miami has prioritized Donte Wright (committed), Ai'King Hall (committed), Nash Johnson III and Jaden Carey.

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami’s cornerback room is talented and deep. The Canes still want to stack blue chip prospects for the future.

Check back often for the latest update on the Canes’ progress on the recruiting trail.

GO CANES!