A breakout linebacker, once projected for a starting role, explores new opportunities after a career-best season with the Miami Hurricanes.
The extended transfer portal window officially closed on Saturday for the Miami Hurricanes. There were some notable departures, but new additions as well, such as former Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive lineman Keona Davis. However, Raul Aguirre Jr. made a last-minute business decision.
It was reported on Saturday night that the 21-year-old linebacker entered the transfer portal. He's coming off a career-season: 43 total tackles, 22 solos and 21 assists, two tackles for loss, and one pass defended in all 16 games, with one start.
Aguirre Jr. was a four-star recruit coming out of Whitewater High School, recording 176 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and two interceptions throughout two seasons. He received interest and offers from numerous powerhouse programs, such as the Florida Gators, Alabama Crimson Tide, Ohio State Buckeyes, Oregon Ducks, and many others, before committing to the Hurricanes on July 12, 2022.
The Georgia native's freshman season came a year after Mario Cristobal's head coaching tenure began. He was instantly a rotational player, finishing with double-digit games played since joining the program.
Aguirre Jr. improved productively after each season.
The Hurricanes' defense played a critical role in the success of making a National Championship appearance for the first time in over two decades. Despite falling short against the Indiana Hoosiers, with a final score of 27-21, it successfully established a new culture and standard moving forward.
As linebacker Wesley Bissainthe has officially declared for the NFL draft, Aguirre Jr. was projected to be a full-time starter next season, even with veteran linebacker Mohamed Toure returning for a final stint.
However, there's still a chance that the Hurricanes manage to retain him, similar to running back Girard Pringle Jr., who withdrew from the transfer portal shortly after entering it. Despite reports of the Crimson Tide showing interest in the 19-year-old.
Aguirre Jr. is an outstanding defender who's seeking a bigger role, potentially a full-time starting gig.
The Hurricanes could turn towards Cam Pruitt, who recorded 10 total tackles, five solos and five assists, 0.5 tackles for loss, and 0.5 sacks, appearing in 15 games. They signed a couple of linebackers as part of the upcoming recruiting class in Karsten Busch and Justin Edwards, both ranked as three-stars, none from the transfer portal.
However, Aguirre Jr.'s return will likely be a priority for the program. The Hurricanes look to remain competitive for next season, which involves replicating the defensive production, plus more.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Hurricanes News: