A dominant Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle emerges as a top NFL draft prospect, showcasing explosive power and disruptive quickness to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
The Miami Hurricanes had nine players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, tied for second-most in a single class in program history, and the highest since coach Mario Cristobal took over. After a historic 13-3 season and reaching the National Championship game, several players currently on the roster look to achieve similar success. They will have numerous eligible prospects, most notably running back Mark Fletcher Jr., quarterback Darian Mensah, offensive lineman Matthew McCoy, and defensive tackle Ahmad Moten Sr.
As the 2027 NFL class has a long way before shaping out, CBS Sports published a “way-too-early” mock draft. They covered the first round and only one Hurricanes prospect was mentioned: Jacksonville Jaguars select Moten Sr. with the No. 18 pick.
“With Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor coming off the board in the first round of Thursday’s NFL Draft, it’s time to get familiar with Moten,” Cooper Petagna wrote. “At 6-foot-3 and 320 pounds, he’s a bull in a china shop, pairing an explosive first step with the quickness to disrupt opposing backfields. A versatile piece who can line up across the front, don’t be surprised if he comes off the board earlier than expected.”
The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, native joined the program in time for coach Mario Cristobal’s inaugural season, resulting in a 5-7 record. Moten Sr. appeared in two games, then redshirted. He emerged as a consistent rotation player ahead of the 2024 season and recorded 18 total tackles, seven solos and 11 assists, 3.5 tackles for loss, two passes broken up, two passes defended, and a sack, appearing in 13 games, two starts.
The following year, Moten Sr. was named a full-time starter, impacting a disruptive pass-rushing unit alongside Mesidor and Bain Jr. In 471 snaps, he recorded 31 total tackles, 20 solos and 11 assists, nine tackles for loss, 27 total pressures, 21 hurries, two hits, and 4.5 sacks, appearing in 14 games, all starts.
The 22-year-old battled through injuries in the College Football Playoffs, managing to still step on the field. He was sidelined throughout spring practices, but could return for fall camp, barring any setbacks in recovery.
The Hurricanes seek to remain competitive, especially as the early-favorites to win the ACC Football Championship. Moten Sr. stood with the program through difficult times. He’s likely to remain a starter and provide leadership, especially with Mesidor and Bain Jr. departing.
If Moten Sr. goes for another career season, a first-round selection becomes an increasing possibility.
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