Following the blueprint of NFL-bound mentors, the versatile defensive lineman looks to weaponize an elite motor and multi-positional power to contribute to the Miami Hurricanes' new-look front this upcoming season.
MIAMI, Fla. – Whether it’s setting the edge or working in the interior, Miami Hurricanes’ Armondo Blount has made an impact all over the line of scrimmage.
Last season, the 19-year-old showed flashes of the talent he has to deliver on the field. As a sophomore, Blount logged 17 total tackles, seven solos and 10 assists, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks in 15 games. He was a key reserve to veterans Akheem Mesidor, Justin Scott, Ahmad Moten Sr., and All-American Rueben Bain Jr.
The first week of fall camp ends and a new journey starts, especially for the defensive line.
“We’re working,” Blount said. Going 1-0 every day and getting better at everything.”
Despite losing Mesidor and Bain Jr. to the NFL, the Hurricanes still have a plethora of talent within the defensive line. Blount’s versatility has allowed him to line up as a pass rusher, but mostly at tackle. Although the Hurricanes’ depth at defensive end was bruised, as Mario Cristobal announced on Tuesday that Hayden Lowe and the program parted ways, the Fort Lauderdale native might not be cemented to a specific trench spot.
Blount has the power and motor to continue playing at both tackle and edge positions. However, the rising junior’s bending needs improvement. Blount has the luxury of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor’s mentorship to sharpen all pass-rushing skill sets.
Last season, Blount saw Mesidor and Bain Jr. work towards remarkable production firsthand. The main aspect about them that stood out to him was their preparation.
“They showed me that if you put enough work in, anything is possible,” Blount said.
Mesidor (No. 22 pick – Los Angeles Chargers) and Bain Jr. (No. 15 pick – Tampa Bay Buccaneers) were first-round selections in this year’s draft. Blount has the blueprint to find similar success and cement a promising future for himself in football. He will be draft-eligible following the upcoming regular season.
Blount, alongside tackle Ahmad Moten Sr., could be the Hurricanes’ next local defensive star. He was a five-star recruit coming from Miami Central High School. Blount’s relentlessness will be on full display this upcoming season.
Although Mesidor and Bain Jr.’s departures are big losses, the Hurricanes don’t expect any regression in the defensive line’s production. Blount’s extensive time on the field should result in him carving out explosive plays and wreaking havoc against offenses.
The Hurricanes have a positionless stud who can make an impact in a variety of ways.
Blount hasn’t received any preseason honors, but the on-field production could turn eyes throughout the season.
