The Miami Hurricanes reload with top talent, landing an ACC-winning QB and dynamic receivers. All are key defensive pickups fueling title aspirations.
The Miami Hurricanes had their work cut out for them following the National Championship loss against the Indiana Hoosiers. As players declared for the NFL draft and others entered the transfer portal, there were voids to fill. After many transactions, the Hurricanes could be on the verge of another title chase season.
According to On3, they had the fourth-winningest transfer portal quest.
On Tuesday, the program secured quarterback Darian Mensah and wide receiver Cooper Barkate, both previously with the Duke Blue Devils, who finished with career seasons and played critical roles in winning the ACC championship. Plus, the additions of wide receivers Cam Vaughn and Vandrevius Jacobs will boost the offense, especially with the departures of CJ Daniels and Keelan Marion, both of whom declared for the NFL draft.
On the defensive side of the field, the Hurricanes acquired a proven starter: safety Omar Thornton.
There are many returns on the front seven, but with edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor taking their talents to the NFL, the acquisition of Damon Wilson II, previously with the Missouri Tigers, becomes a great factor. Plus, defensive linemen Jarquez Carter and Keona Davis will likely be rotation players.
The Hurricanes have successfully reloaded the roster on both sides of the field. Given the upcoming schedule, they're likely the favorites to win the ACC, which would be a first in program history.
There was only one offensive lineman to join the Hurricanes from the transfer portal, Jamal Meriweather from the Georgia Bulldogs. Protecting quarterback Carson Beck played a massive role in individual and team success.
Despite notable departures, such as James Brockermeyer, Anez Cooper, Markel Bell, and Francis Mauigoa, all of whom declared for the NFL draft, there's strong depth ready to step in.
Protecting Mensah from sacks and pressures could result in another leap in production, especially with all the high-quality weapons surrounding him.
Also, the 21-year-old will face his old program towards the end of the upcoming regular season. It will be a similar experience to when he faced the Tulane Green Wave, but this time it will take place in a new place to call home, Hard Rock Stadium.
The Hurricanes are likely done with any more transfer portal business and will continue developing players from within.
Mario Cristobal has led the program to new heights, but this new-looking team appears promising very early.
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