Rising from three-star recruit to Freshman All-American, this lockdown cornerback possesses the elite man-coverage skills and fluid footwork necessary to elevate the Miami Hurricanes' secondary and secure first-round consideration.
MIAMI, Fla. – In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Miami Hurricanes had nine players selected, including three first-rounders. Every college football season, players have an opportunity to make themselves known to scouts and executives. The Hurricanes have 44 players eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft, including cornerback Romanas “OJ” Frederique Jr.
Upon arriving at the Coral Gables campus, the Deerfield Beach native has been among the program’s most prolific defensive backs. The former three-star recruit earned freshman All-American honors, but the belief is he has yet to scratch the surface.
Frederique Jr. has played a key role in the Hurricanes' secondary over the last couple of years. In the 2024 season, he logged 30 tackles, 23 solos and seven assists, a tackle for loss, seven passes broken up in eight passes defended, and an interception against Duke while appearing in 13 games (seven starts). Along with national honors, Frederique Jr. was named an honorable mention for the All-Atlantic Coast Conference team.
Despite a promising freshman campaign, the success didn’t fully translate last season.
Frederique Jr. dealt with injuries, but made an impact when on the field. He logged 19 total tackles, 12 solos and seven assists, and seven passes broken up in seven passes defended in 10 games (nine starts). Frederique Jr. missed the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl semifinals against Ole Miss, but returned for the National Championship game.
Given the departure of Keionte Scott – a fourth-round selection (pick No. 116) by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2026 NFL Draft – Frederique Jr. can emerge as the Hurricanes’ top cornerback. He has the intangibles to be a disruptor in the passing game, but the interception numbers need to pick up.
Frederique Jr. has the man-coverage skills, fluid footwork, and patience to be an elite cornerback. According to Pro Football Network, he’s the third-best 2027 NFL prospect at the position. However, a breakout season would solidify a strong and high stock.
Playing a second year in defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman’s system will help him thrive.
Frederique Jr. has the choice to return to college football for a senior season. It would benefit the Hurricanes, but the goal would likely be to secure a promising future in the NFL. Frederique Jr. will likely be a full-time starter this upcoming season.
After participating in spring practices, the junior cornerback is likely set to report to fall camp. He will have the opportunity to secure a starting role and show flashes of what’s to come.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
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