The Miami Hurricanes vie for four-star defensive lineman Jamar Thompson. A championship program and local ties could sway his decision as he weighs top contenders.
As top-market high school recruits continue to schedule visits and narrow down options, the Miami Hurricanes are viewed as a desirable landing destination. Coming off a National Championship, the program has gained significant attention, including from Jamar Thompson.
The four-star defensive lineman is reportedly eyeing four programs: Hurricanes, Auburn Tigers, Michigan Wolverines, and Ohio State Buckeyes.
Thompson currently attends West Boca Raton High School, a magnet institution located in Palm Beach County. He’s recorded 128 total tackles, 53 solos and 75 assists, 37 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks in 39 total games over three seasons.
The four-star recruit has received significant interest and offers from numerous programs, including the Florida State Seminoles, South Florida Bulls, Florida Gators, Tennessee Volunteers, Texas Longhorns, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Ole Miss Rebels, Oklahoma Sooners, LSU Tigers, and many others.
Thompson made several unofficial visits with the Hurricanes, which could be an early indication as to which program has his attention the most. Coming off a National Championship, the defense significantly improved under first-year defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, who was a finalist for the Broyles Award, which honors the nation’s top assistant.
Last season, they finished with 50 overall sacks, the most of any Football Bowl Subdivision program. The defensive line, led by edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, was among the best in causing havoc against opposing offensive lines and quarterbacks. Dominating matchups in the trenches has been the program’s philosophy since coach Mario Cristobal took over.
All the more reasons for Thompson to potentially join the Hurricanes. He would have the opportunity to develop under defensive line coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor. He played a significant role in Mesidor and Bain Jr., who is coming off an All-American season, plus being named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and the Ted Hendricks Award winner, growth.
The Hurricanes are making a strong emphasis on recruiting and securing commitments from in-house talent. In previous years, they would usually come short, such as Buckeyes wide receiver and Miami Gardens native Jeremiah Smith.
As Thompson evaluates each program, a chance to play at home will likely weigh in. The Hurricanes look to remain competitive for the long-term and securing high school talent fits into that plan.
The four-star defensive lineman has some time before making a final decision. However, the local program could be the favorite in this case
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