What now?!?

Miami has struck out with their top three safety targets this cycle.

This weekend the Canes lost safety prospects Tyrique Green to Georgia and Blake Stuart to Clemson. Earlier this month, Oregon came out of nowhere to beat Miami for Orlando area safety Devin Jackson.

Where does Miami turn to acquire blue chip talent at the safety position?

After assessing the situation, we have landed on six options for the Canes.

FLIP Devin Jackson from Oregon.

This will be very difficult in the new NIL era. Still, Mario Cristobal is known for his recruiting tenacity. Never count him out.

Move on to the next man,Cortez Redding.

Pivot recruiting to uncommitted four-star safety Cortez Redding (Jonesboro, GA). The Canes must do battle with NC State, Ole Miss and Indiana.

Move on to the next man, Tamarion Watkins

Tamarion Watkins (Rock Hill, SC) is a relatively late target for Miami. He has the requisite size and speed, but will announce his choice of college on Monday. Miami is probably late to the party here.

Circle back to versatile four-star DB Davon Benjamin.

Davon Benjamin (Westlake Village, CA) has been projected as both a corner and safety by rating agencies. Would Davon be attracted to a Miami opportunity at safety? If so, this elite defensive back would be a big win for the Canes. But will all have to beat out Washington, Oregon, Texas and Michigan.

Move 2027 corner commit Kenton Dopson to safety.

Dopson is likely to reclassify to the 2026 recruiting class. Tricky move if Dopson wants to play on the corner. While unlikely, he could open his recruitment back up and consider other schools.

Move a committed CB to safety.

Dangerous maneuver that could cost a de-commitment at the corner position. This would probably be a final resort move.

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami is now in a bind. Going into 2025, the Canes are thin at safety and the situation doesn’t get better in 2026. Recruiting is not for the faint of heart.

GO CANES!