UNDER the SCOPE: Defensive Ends

May 7, 2026

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 DEFENSIVE END room.

Overview:

Miami has built a national reputation as EDGE U. In recent years, Hall of Fame coach Aaron Taylor has cemented that reputation with recruiting prospects across the nation. In 2026, he developed and sent not one but two of his ends, Rueben bain and Akeem Mesidor, to the NFL as first round draft choices.

In 2026, coach Taylor must replace both of his star starters. But the cupboard is not empty.

Miami prefers to carry between 8–10 defensive ends on the roster.

Returning Lettermen:

Miami returns five (5) defensive ends, Armondo Blount, Marquise Lightfoot, Hayden Lowe, Booker Pickett and Herbert Scroggins III from the 2025 squad. Cole McConathy II was moved to tight end this spring.

Incoming Transfers:

Miami signed one transfer edge this cycle, Damon Wilson II (Missouri) and is expected to compete for a starting position.

Incoming Freshmen:

Miami welcomes true freshmen Asharri Charles, Jordan Campbell and Isaac Chukwurah to the room. Campbell may ultimately end up as a linebacker and Chukwurah may grow into a defensive tackle on Greentree .

Top Recruiting Targets:

The coaching staff is always looking to the future, stashing blue chip talent. Miami is looking to take 1-2 defensive ends in their 2027 class. The Canes can be selective with their DE recruiting this cycle. But they have plenty blue chip prospects. At this time, the staff has prioritized 5-star edge DJ Jacobs, Jaiden Bryant, Ezekiel Ayangbile, Xavier Muhammad, Marquis Evans and Jabarrius Garror. Both Jacobs and Bryant are committed elsewhere and will need to be “flipped.”

NOTE: 2028 Four-star edge rusher  Asher Ghioto  may reclassify to the 2027 recruiting class. if so, Miami is expected to prioritize.

The ROOM: (alphabetical order)

Armondo Blount

Asharri Charles

Jordan Campbell

Isaac Chukwurah

Marquise Lightfoot

Hayden Lowe

Booker Pickett

Herbert Scroggins III

Damon Wilson II

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami is bringing back a deep, and talented group of defensive ends in 2026. The staff will be very selective this cycle but always looking to continue to stack elite talent for the future.

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

GO CANES!