{"id":156841,"date":"2026-02-16T03:48:09","date_gmt":"2026-02-16T03:48:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/156841\/"},"modified":"2026-02-16T03:48:09","modified_gmt":"2026-02-16T03:48:09","slug":"rivals-camp-series-recruiting-intel-from-miami","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/156841\/","title":{"rendered":"Rivals Camp Series: Recruiting intel from Miami"},"content":{"rendered":"

After a very good start in Atlanta<\/a> a couple of weeks ago, the Rivals Camp Series headed South to Miami. Around 200 athletes competed at this event, and half a dozen states were represented.<\/p>\n

There are a lot of names to know and storylines to follow.<\/p>\n

5-star OT Mark Matthews<\/p>\n

When Mark Matthews arrived on Sunday, he immediately drew attention. The five-star offensive tackle out of Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas<\/a> is one of the premier prospects in the country, and the nation\u2019s top programs are firmly in pursuit.<\/p>\n

After multiple conversations throughout the weekend, the buzz continues to center on Miami<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is a lot to like about Miami,\u201d Matthews told Rivals. \u201cIt is close to home, they are great offensive line teachers, they are winning, and I always have a good time when I am there. I know I will be back for the spring and for an official visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

The hometown program has positioned itself as the team to beat heading into the spring stretch. The relationships are strong, the developmental track record up front resonates, and proximity to home adds another layer of comfort.<\/p>\n

That said, Miami has legitimate competition.<\/p>\n

Texas A&M<\/a> made a major impression when Matthews visited College Station in the fall. The Aggies have steadily gained momentum.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat visit was big for me. I had a great time. They have come in and gotten to know me, my family and made us feel very important. Texas A&M has moved up, for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

Georgia<\/a> is firmly in the mix as well. The Bulldogs got Matthews on campus and, like Miami and Texas A&M, are set to receive an official visit. While there may be slightly more current chatter around the Aggies than Georgia, both SEC programs are legitimate contenders.<\/p>\n

Still, as the process moves toward spring visits and official visit season, Matthews\u2019 recruitment begins with Miami \u2014 and the Hurricanes remain in control of the narrative.<\/p>\n

4-star WR Julius Jones<\/p>\n

Julius Jones<\/a>, a Top 100 prospect out of St. Thomas Aquinas, has trimmed his list to eight schools. As the spring approaches, however, a smaller tier appears to be separating \u2014 and the buzz centers on Notre Dame<\/a> and Oregon<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will be back at Oregon on April 4, then take an official visit there on June 5,\u201d Jones said. \u201cOregon is making it hard on me. They are doing a really good job recruiting me. Coach Douglas and I have a great relationship.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oregon\u2019s consistency and attention to detail have resonated. The Ducks are firmly in the fight.<\/p>\n

Still, Notre Dame carries significant weight.<\/p>\n

\u201cNotre Dame is doing a great job too. I talk to Coach Freeman a lot. He tells me I am extremely important to him, and he and the staff shows me a lot of love. I like the staff and it is a great fit up there. My dad played there, I grew up a big fan and Notre Dame will always be high on my list.\u201d<\/p>\n

The legacy connection is real, and the Irish continue to recruit him with purpose. The relationships inside the building remain strong.<\/p>\n

Florida<\/a> has gained momentum since a January visit. LSU<\/a> remains involved. Texas<\/a> has been in steady communication as well.<\/p>\n

But heading into the spring visit window and official visit season, this recruitment runs through Notre Dame and Oregon.<\/p>\n

4-star OL Sean Tatum<\/p>\n

Miami<\/a> has positioned itself at the top for four-star offensive lineman Sean Tatum<\/a> out of Port Saint Lucie (Fla.) John Carroll<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Hurricanes were the first to offer, and no program has hosted Tatum more times than Miami. That early belief and consistent communication have Mario Cristobal<\/a>\u2019s staff out in front.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiami is recruiting me so hard,\u201d Tatum said. \u201cThey believed in me first, they\u2019ve made me feel very important and they\u2019re on top. It\u2019s Miami in the lead, then Florida<\/a> and Tennessee<\/a> right behind them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tatum has official visits scheduled with all three programs and plans to attend multiple spring practices, setting up a pivotal stretch in his recruitment as the summer approaches.<\/p>\n

4-star WR Amare Patterson <\/p>\n

Florida and Georgia set the tone early with January visits, and the two SEC powers are now battling for the top spot with four-star wide receiver Amare Patterson<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeorgia and Florida are in that 1-2 range,\u201d Patterson said. \u201cThey are both recruiting me hard. I have official visits set up to both schools. They are definitely top contenders.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both programs have prioritized Patterson, and the return trips this summer will be pivotal in separating the two.<\/p>\n

A third contender is emerging. LSU extended an offer last week, immediately grabbing Patterson\u2019s attention. A first visit to Baton Rouge is expected this spring, giving the Tigers a chance to make a move.<\/p>\n

Heading into the spring, the battle between the SEC rivals remains tight for the playmaker out of Bluffton<\/a> (S.C.). Upcoming visits will carry significant weight in how this recruitment unfolds.<\/p>\n

4-star CB Jaden Carey<\/p>\n

St. Thomas Aquinas<\/a> safety Jaden Carey<\/a> continues to see his recruitment surge. After adding an offer from Georgia last week, the rising defensive back now sits at 40 total offers \u2014 and the momentum is not slowing down.<\/p>\n

Florida made a significant impression during Carey\u2019s January visit to Gainesville, and there is tangible buzz around the Gators entering the spring. Sources indicate Jon Sumrall<\/a>\u2019s program is firmly in the mix, and potentially on top for Carey.<\/p>\n

\u201cAuburn<\/a>, Florida and Ohio State<\/a> are battling for the top spot,\u201d Carey said. \u201cThose three schools develop players and continue to have strong relationships with me and my family.\u201d<\/p>\n

The relationships and track record for development are separating contenders from the pack. Carey will return to Florida on March 7 and is set to visit Ohio State on April 17. Additional visits are currently being scheduled as he works through the next phase of his recruitment.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe schools recruiting me hardest are those three, Georgia, Ole Miss<\/a> and Miami,\u201d Carey added.<\/p>\n

4-star WR Jamarin Simmons<\/p>\n

Clemson continues to hold the early edge for Jamarin Simmons<\/a>, one of the top playmakers in the Sunshine State. The Tigers have built momentum through multiple visits, and more trips are already locked in. Simmons will return March 7 and take an official visit May 29.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love Coach Grisham,\u201d Simmons said. \u201cClemson has always been high on my list. The coaching staff is great, and I just like how they do things up there.\u201d<\/p>\n

Auburn, Florida, Florida State and Miami are also firmly in the mix. Of that group, Florida State is viewed as the closest challenger.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know I will take an official visit to Florida State. I had a great time at their Junior Day and the coaches have been recruiting me hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

4-star WR Ah\u2019Mari Stevens<\/p>\n

Ah\u2019Mari Stevens<\/a> showed up Sunday in Miami shorts, flashing \u201cThe U\u201d with his hands. The four-star receiver out of Chaminade Madonna<\/a> remains firmly committed, but he is not shutting down the process.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel great about Miami,\u201d Stevens said. \u201cIt is home, I can be that hometown hero and I have real relationships with the staff.\u201d<\/p>\n

The in-state program has positioned itself well. Familiarity, proximity and strong ties inside the building continue to anchor his pledge. Flipping him will not be easy.<\/p>\n

That said, LSU has gained traction since the coaching transition in Baton Rouge. George McDonald<\/a> has made Stevens a priority, and the communication has been consistent.<\/p>\n

\u201cLSU is coming hard. They came to see me in January and they always put out top receivers. I will be there for an official visit for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

Georgia, Tennessee<\/a> and Texas were also mentioned as programs firmly in the mix.<\/p>\n

Miami holds the commitment and the edge, but official visit season will be important. LSU, in particular, is applying pressure.<\/p>\n

4-star OL Reed Ramsier <\/p>\n

Multiple programs remain squarely in the mix for Reed Ramsier<\/a>, one of Florida\u2019s top offensive line prospects, but the race appears to be tightening at the top.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s really between Miami and Auburn at the top,\u201d Ramsier said. \u201cBoth schools are making me feel like a priority. Miami is known for their development up front and a lot of my friends go there. Auburn\u2019s staff feels genuine. The people are next level.\u201d<\/p>\n

Auburn, under Alex Golesh<\/a> and the new staff, has made a significant push over the last few months. The communication has been consistent, and the personal touch has resonated. Miami, meanwhile, has maintained steady momentum. The Hurricanes\u2019 reputation for offensive line development and longstanding relationships in South Florida continue to carry weight.<\/p>\n

Ramsier currently has one official visit locked in \u2014 Auburn on June 12 \u2014 but that list is expected to expand as the spring unfolds. He has unofficial visits scheduled to Clemson<\/a> (March 7), Florida (March 10), Texas<\/a> (March 28) and Miami (April 3), with another trip to Auburn also planned this spring.<\/p>\n

With more than 40 offers on the table, Ramsier is in no rush. A summer commitment is the target, and the criteria are clear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m looking for a school that can develop me to go play in the NFL,\u201d he said. \u201cI also want a school with the right people and culture.\u201d<\/p>\n

4-star DL Maleek Lee<\/p>\n

Booker<\/a> defensive lineman Maleek Lee<\/a> continues to surge up boards. With close to 30 offers in hand, Lee has established himself as one of the top defensive prospects in the Sunshine State \u2014 and one SEC program is gaining momentum.<\/p>\n

Florida made a strong move in January when Lee visited The Swamp for the first time. The trip allowed him to get an in-depth look at the new staff and the direction of the program.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe energy at Florida stood out when I was there, and they treated me like I was one of their own,\u201d Lee said. \u201cFlorida is high on my list and they will definitely get an official visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lee plans to return to Gainesville this spring to see the Gators practice, another opportunity to evaluate development, scheme fit and culture.<\/p>\n

Two additional programs have also made a lasting impression: Louisville<\/a> and Ohio State.<\/p>\n

4-star WR Jaiden Kelly-Murray<\/p>\n

The wide receiver out of Oceanside Collegiate Academy<\/a> in South Carolina is up to 38 offers and he has lined up numerous spring visits and official visits. <\/p>\n

Jaiden Kelly-Murray<\/a> has spring visits lined up to Illinois<\/a> (March 23), Memphis<\/a> (March 25), Virginia Tech<\/a> (April 3), Vanderbilt<\/a> (April 9), Michigan State<\/a> (April 14) and Wake Forest<\/a> (April 16). Those trips will lead directly into a packed official visit schedule.<\/p>\n

He has four official visits locked in: Virginia Tech (May 29-31), Illinois (June 5-7), Wake Forest (June 13-15) and South Carolina<\/a> (June 19-21).<\/p>\n

Illinois, South Carolina and Wake Forest are recruiting him the hardest entering the spring, and there is early separation at the top.<\/p>\n

\u201cIllinois is in the lead right now,\u201d Kelly-Murray said. \u201cJust because of the relationship me and Coach Shepp have. He always calls and checks up on me and shows that I\u2019m a main priority to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

South Carolina is running a close second. Kelly-Murray\u2019s timeline is clear. He plans to commit after completing his official visits, likely in July.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I pick that school, it\u2019ll be the school that can develop me as a player but also as a person.\u201d<\/p>\n

4-star WR DeMarcus DeRoche<\/p>\n

Schools continue to push for Miami commit DeMarcus DeRoche<\/a>, but the versatile athlete out of Cardinal Gibbons<\/a> remains firm with the Hurricanes despite a wave of new offers from Missouri<\/a>, Ohio State, Texas and West Virginia.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiami is a great school,\u201d DeRoche said. \u201cI have been committed to them for a while and I like the coaches a lot. Frank Tucker is my guy, and we have a great relationship. I talk to Coach Cristobal a lot too. He is very involved and that means a lot. He took Miami to the championship game this season and I see Miami winning it all next year.\u201d<\/p>\n

Miami stays in regular communication, but there is significant competition working to flip him.<\/p>\n

\u201cFlorida is recruiting me very hard. Coach Sumrall, Coach McKissack and other coaches are on me. I haven\u2019t visited since the new staff took over, but I have been to Florida before.<\/p>\n

\u201cTexas is coming hard too. They came by the school, they have shown a lot of interest, and they want me to visit. I am still learning about Texas, but it is a good program. I have an official visit set there for June 19.\u201d<\/p>\n

Multiple schools are pushing for DeRoche, and we expect him to take visits in the coming months. <\/p>\n

4-star OT JJ Brown<\/p>\n

Four-star offensive tackle JJ Brown<\/a> out of Lilburn (Ga.) Parkview<\/a> is letting the process play out \u2014 and doing it the right way.<\/p>\n

Spring visits are still being finalized as Brown works to get on multiple campuses in March, but his official visit schedule is already taking shape. He will be at Pitt<\/a> on May 29, Georgia on June 5 and Auburn on June 12.<\/p>\n

Heading into the spring, those three programs are firmly in the mix.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeorgia, Auburn and Pitt are definitely high on my list,\u201d Brown said. \u201cA few schools are doing a great job making me feel like a priority, staying consistent and building real relationships.\u201d<\/p>\n

Brown has no clear leader at this point and is approaching the process with patience.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t really have a set favorite right now,\u201d he said. \u201cPitt, Georgia, Auburn and Kentucky<\/a> have all stood out in different ways. It\u2019s been more about the relationships I\u2019m building with the coaches and how consistent they\u2019ve been with communication. That\u2019s big for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Development is at the center of his evaluation. The 6-foot-5-plus tackle is focused on long-term growth \u2014 on and off the field.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just focused on building real connections, taking my official visits and finding the best fit development-wise, academically and culturally,\u201d Brown said. \u201cThe brand side is important too, but I want it to grow the right way \u2014 through work, consistency and the right program fit.\u201d<\/p>\n

CB Jemari Foreman<\/p>\n

Jemari Foreman<\/a> remains locked in with Florida State<\/a>, but other programs continue to push. The Plantation<\/a> (Fla.) cornerback is sitting on 25 offers and committed to Florida State in September. Despite ongoing interest from across the country, Foreman says his pledge to the Seminoles remains firm.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy commitment to FSU is very strong,\u201d Foreman said. \u201cThey treat me like family. It\u2019s a great feeling, and me and Evan Cooper<\/a>\u2019s bond is very strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

Foreman was back in Tallahassee for junior day and also made a stop at Auburn last month. Even while committed, he continues to evaluate and build relationships, though no additional spring visits are set at this time.<\/p>\n

He does have one official visit locked in \u2014 to Florida State from June 12-14. No other official visits have been scheduled.<\/p>\n

The Seminoles are joined by Cal<\/a> and Oklahoma<\/a> as the programs pushing hardest. Pittsburgh<\/a> has also caught his attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m looking around at other schools, but my commitment at FSU is still going strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

DL Stive-Bentley Keumajou<\/p>\n

Stive-Bentley Keumajou<\/a> made the move from Canada to South Florida and has quickly emerged as a defensive lineman to know at Coral Gables. With well over 20 offers, his recruitment is accelerating heading into the spring.<\/p>\n

He did not get out for visits in January, but that will change soon. Keumajou is planning trips to Auburn, Florida, Kentucky, Louisville, Miami and Nebraska over the next few months.<\/p>\n

Two SEC programs have separated themselves early.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy top schools right now are Florida and Auburn,\u201d Keumajou said. \u201cBoth schools have made me feel like a top priority from the coaches to the fans. I have an official visit set up to Florida on May 29 and then to Auburn on June 5.\u201d<\/p>\n

Those two have set the pace, but others remain firmly in the mix. Kentucky, Louisville and Texas are doing a strong job staying involved as Keumajou evaluates his options heading into a pivotal stretch of visits.<\/p>\n

WR Elias Pearl<\/p>\n

Elias Pearl<\/a> is a fast-rising playmaker out of Port Charlotte<\/a> is approaching 20 offers after a strong offseason stretch. In January, he made stops at Clemson, Florida and Georgia \u2014 trips that helped further shape his board.<\/p>\n

More visits are on the horizon this spring. Pearl is looking to get to Colorado<\/a>, Florida, Georgia, Ole Miss and Virginia Tech<\/a>, though no additional dates are locked in at this time.<\/p>\n

He does, however, have three official visits scheduled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will be at Virginia Tech on May 29, Georgia<\/a> on June 5 and Ole Miss on June 12,\u201d Pearl said. \u201cGeorgia, Ole Miss and Virginia Tech have been keeping the most contact, so those are high on my list.\u201d<\/p>\n

The most buzz is around the Bulldogs and Pearl plans to move with purpose through the process.<\/p>\n

\u201cI expect I\u2019ll commit by the end of summer,\u201d he said. \u201cA school that will develop me on and off the field, helping me reach the next level and preparing me for my future, will be big in my decision.\u201d<\/p>\n

DL Tyler Alexander<\/p>\n

Tyler Alexander<\/a> is a major target for Florida, and the big defensive lineman out of Palm Beach Central<\/a> has the Gators on top. <\/p>\n

\u201cI was at Florida in January and they have shown me a lot of love,\u201d Alexander said. \u201cI will be back this spring, then take my official visit on June 12. Florida has a great staff. They are intense and have a lot of passion. <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is close to home, I have family up there and Florida has the edge right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas and Texas A&M are schools Alexander wants to visit this spring. <\/p>\n

QB James Perrone<\/p>\n

James Perrone<\/a> thought about reclassifying to 2026, but the St. Thomas Aquinas signal-caller remains committed to USF<\/a> and will stay in the 2027 class, giving himself one more run at another state title this fall.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m committed to USF and I love what is happening with that program,\u201d Perrone said. \u201cIt is on the upswing with a great inflow of talent from the portal, a great head coach in Brian Hartline<\/a> and the new stadium coming. I\u2019m a Florida native, so I obviously love that it\u2019s in Florida. There\u2019s no reason they can\u2019t do what Indiana did.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m pumped to get up there and be a factor and contribute to the team as a true freshman. I know I will mentally thrive in that offense \u2014 getting the ball out, putting up points. My legs help me make plays and keep my eyes downfield.\u201d<\/p>\n

USF remains in a strong position, but other programs continue to communicate. Auburn and Virginia Tech<\/a> are both staying involved.<\/p>\n

There is familiarity with Auburn, as members of the former USF staff are now on the Tigers\u2019 staff, creating a natural connection. Perrone is eyeing visits to both Auburn and Virginia Tech, though his commitment to the Bulls remains intact.<\/p>\n

SAF Alan Blackshear<\/p>\n

Florida State was the only program Alan Blackshear<\/a> visited in January, and that trip has the Seminoles in a strong early position with the Miami Carol City safety.<\/p>\n

\u201cFlorida State is recruiting me the hardest,\u201d Blackshear said. \u201cThey have gotten to know me, and they have shown me they like my character and the game. I have only been there once, but I had a great time. I like the coaches a lot too and they are my top school.\u201d<\/p>\n

The staff in Tallahassee has prioritized relationship-building and consistent communication, and it has resonated. =<\/p>\n

At the same time, his recruitment is expanding nationally. New offers from Alabama, Notre Dame, Oregon and Texas A&M have come in, adding blueblood competition to the mix.<\/p>\n

WR Austin Coles<\/p>\n

St. Thomas Aquinas wide receiver Austin Coles<\/a> holds 19 offers, and one program has begun to separate from the pack.<\/p>\n

\u201cKentucky, Minnesota<\/a> and Rutgers<\/a> are definitely recruiting me hard and making me feel important,\u201d Coles said. \u201cKentucky is in the lead.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Wildcats\u2019 consistent communication and emphasis on building a strong relationship have helped them move to the front of his recruitment, though Coles remains open as the process continues.<\/p>\n

He has not finalized any spring visits or official visits yet, but those plans are expected to come together soon. While a spring commitment is possible, Coles is keeping his timeline flexible.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy commitment could be between April and July,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019m not certain yet because I\u2019m going to wait until after my official visits.\u201d<\/p>\n

RB Arwin Jackson<\/p>\n

Arwin Jackson<\/a> continues to solidify himself as one of South Florida\u2019s premier playmakers. The dynamic running back out of Carol City<\/a> holds over 20 offers, and his recruitment picked up even more momentum in January when Florida State, Kentucky and Oregon entered the picture.<\/p>\n

One of those programs did not waste time making a statement.<\/p>\n

\u201cOregon definitely has my interest,\u201d Jackson said. \u201cIt has been a dream school of mine since I was a kid. Coach Samples and Coach Terry let me know that they really like me when they came down to see me. They really like my tape and they want me to be a guy their offensive line blocks for.\u201d<\/p>\n

That message resonated.<\/p>\n

Jackson is set to visit Oregon Ducks football on March 14, giving him an opportunity to see the program up close and continue building on that early momentum.<\/p>\n

Other visits are beginning to take shape as well. Trips to Georgia Tech, Indiana<\/a> and Miami are in the works, with Miami firmly in the mix near the top of his board.<\/p>\n

TE Landon Wolny<\/p>\n

Tight end Landon Wolny<\/a> out of Naples (Fla.) Community School of Naples<\/a> is sitting on 31 offers and entering a pivotal stretch of his recruitment.<\/p>\n

Wolny did not make any January visits due to an internship, but his spring calendar is quickly filling up. He plans to visit Notre Dame<\/a> on March 21, along with trips to Yale, South Carolina<\/a>, Texas Tech<\/a> and potentially others. Official visits are in the process of being scheduled and should be finalized soon.<\/p>\n

At this stage, Notre Dame has positioned itself out front.<\/p>\n

\u201cNotre Dame has definitely been hard to beat,\u201d Wolny said. \u201cCoach Bivin and coach Freeman have built a good relationship with me. I love the tradition they have at Notre Dame, and them being a prestigious school as well as top-notch athletics sets the bar high.\u201d<\/p>\n

While the Fighting Irish may have the edge, the race remains competitive. South Carolina and Yale have also made significant impressions, and Colorado is firmly in the mix.<\/p>\n

\u201cSouth Carolina is special \u2014 from the culture to the fans,\u201d Wolny said. \u201cPerfection is the expectation, and I think that\u2019s what separates the good from the great. And they\u2019re great.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wolny emphasized that relationships and program culture will ultimately determine his decision. He plans to commit this spring, making the upcoming visits critical.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe most important thing I\u2019m looking for is a strong relationship with the coach and the culture the college has.\u201d<\/p>\n

DB Samari Howard<\/p>\n

Cornerback Samari Howard<\/a> of St. Thomas Aquinas continues to see steady momentum in his recruitment, now holding close to 30 offers as he heads into a critical offseason stretch.<\/p>\n

Howard did not take any visits in January, but that will change soon. While no spring trips are locked in, he is looking to get to West Virginia<\/a>, Pitt and possibly USF over the next few months. One visit is already set \u2014 an official visit to West Virginia on May 29.<\/p>\n

As things stand, two programs are separating from the pack.<\/p>\n

\u201cPitt and WVU are definitely doing the best job,\u201d Howard said. \u201cThey text me every day and just make me feel like I would fit great into the program.\u201d<\/p>\n

Howard plans to commit before the start of his senior season, making the spring and early summer evaluation period pivotal. When it comes time to make a decision, the criteria are clear.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s most important is that I feel like I\u2019m home,\u201d he said. \u201cI want to get developed and also I want them to teach me how to become a man off the field.\u201d<\/p>\n

QB DJ Hunter<\/p>\n

DJ Hunter<\/a>, the quarterback at Buford<\/a> (Ga.), committed to Kentucky when Mark Stoops<\/a> was leading the program. With a change at the top and Will Stein<\/a> now in charge, momentum in his recruitment is shifting.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still open to exploring other options,\u201d Hunter said. \u201cJanuary was a good month for me. Auburn, Vanderbilt, Florida State, USF, UAB, Virginia Tech and Kennesaw State are some schools that came to see me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Several programs have quickly moved onto his radar as communication increases.<\/p>\n

\u201cUSF, Florida State, Maryland and West Virginia are some schools on my radar. I am still working through my spring schedule, but I\u2019ve talked to Maryland and West Virginia about official visits.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 4-star QB Neimann Lawrence <\/p>\n

There continues to be buzz surrounding quarterback Neimann Lawrence<\/a> and the possibility of a move from the 2028 class into 2027. That decision remains under discussion, but it is one to monitor closely over the coming months. Regardless of classification, the Plantation (Fla.) American Heritage<\/a> standout is one of the most coveted signal-callers in the country \u2014 and his recruitment reflects it.<\/p>\n

Miami has long been viewed as the program to beat. Two SEC powers \u2014 Texas and Texas A&M \u2014 have made significant moves.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiami knows me well,\u201d Lawrence said. \u201cI have been going there since the seventh grade. That staff has always made me feel like a priority. They are definitely up there on my list.<\/p>\n

\u201cTexas is too. I like Texas A&M a lot as well. I will visit both schools again this spring. Dia Bell and I train together, and I have a great connection with the Texas staff. The coaches at A&M have been great. I met with them in January and I like what they are doing with the program.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ohio State Buckeyes football remains firmly in the mix as well. Lawrence has been to Columbus roughly half a dozen times and continues to maintain strong relationships there.<\/p>\n

An early decision is firmly on the table, with Lawrence trending toward a commitment sooner rather than later.<\/p>\n

2028 4-star WR Tromon Isaac<\/p>\n

Tromon Isaac<\/a> is one of the South Florida playmakers to know in the 2028 class. The wide receiver out of Chaminade-Madonna already holds close to three dozen offers, and his recruitment accelerated in a major way to start 2026.<\/p>\n

\u201cI picked up offers from UCF, Oklahoma<\/a>, Georgia Tech, Notre Dame<\/a>, Liberty, USF, Connecticut, Michigan, Minnesota and Texas in January,\u201d Isaac said. \u201cA lot of those schools came in to see me and they all made some big plays for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

January was a heavy in-school evaluation period for Young, with multiple staffs making face-to-face contact and pushing hard to build early relationships. Even without extensive travel this offseason, several programs have positioned themselves near the top of his board.<\/p>\n

Isaac has not taken many visits yet, but three schools currently stand out.<\/p>\n

\u201cOle Miss, Texas and Miami have my interest right now,\u201d he said. \u201cThey actually talked to me about how college is, and I can see that they are really interested in me going to their school.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 QB Austan Cristiaan<\/p>\n

Austan Cristiaan<\/a> is a talented 2028 quarterback at Community School of Naples<\/a> is approaching double-digit offers, and a strong January evaluation period helped several programs position themselves early in his recruitment.<\/p>\n

Among the schools that have already offered, Virginia Tech, Arkansas<\/a> and USF currently have his attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cVirginia Tech because Coach Crist and I have spent a lot of time together and he\u2019s watched me throw at school,\u201d Cristiaan said. I visited Penn State in the fall for a game, and now with James Franklin<\/a> at Virginia Tech it would be a great fit.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was up at Arkansas for the spring game and got to spend a lot of time at the facilities and with the coaches. Fayetteville is a great place and I could see myself there.<\/p>\n

\u201cUSF jumped up there because of the energy I felt with the coaching staff in January and Brian Hartline being there now.\u201d<\/p>\n

A busy spring is ahead. Christaan plans to compete at the Elite 11 regional in Indianapolis and will make additional campus stops in early March.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be at Elite 11 in Indianapolis and plan to make stops at Notre Dame and Illinois on March 2. I will also visit Clemson, Auburn, USF, Florida State and Virginia Tech.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 QB Blake McCullough<\/p>\n

Blake McCullough<\/a> entered the new year with an offer from Toledo<\/a>. He added FAU<\/a> and FIU<\/a> in January. An in-state school has emerged as a favorite for the 2028 quarterback out of Orlando Bishop Moore. <\/p>\n

\u201cI really like FAU, and they could be a top school for me,\u201d McCullough said. \u201cI went on a game day visit there this fall and I really enjoyed it. The coaches are great and the campus is really nice.\u201d<\/p>\n

Many more schools are on his radar. Liberty<\/a>, Michigan State<\/a> and Rutgers<\/a> were some of the schools that stopped by in January. Duke, East Carolina, Florida State and USF are also showing interest. <\/p>\n

2028 EDGE Alexander Beltran<\/p>\n

Alexander Beltran<\/a> is another Chaminade-Madonna prospect seeing his recruitment take off. The 2028 EDGE defender already holds eight offers and added several significant programs in January.<\/p>\n

West Virginia, Boston College, Tennessee and Oklahoma all extended offers last month, giving Beltran a strong early foundation nationally.<\/p>\n

He did not take any visits in January, but Oklahoma\u2019s edge coach Miguel Chavis made a lasting impression during an in-school stop.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoach Chavis went in depth on the program and its history,\u201d Beltran said. \u201cI know he watched my film because he gave me insights on my game \u2014 my strengths, weaknesses and how I can improve. That meant everything to me. It showed I am highly recruited by them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Even at this early stage, two programs stand out.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiami and Oklahoma,\u201d Beltran said. \u201cMiami has always been on my list because I\u2019m from the city and they\u2019ve been amazing at producing defensive ends. Oklahoma has been one of the top programs year after year and they produce a lot of great athletes that go to the league and dominate.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 QB Jackson Stecher<\/p>\n

Jackson Stecher<\/a> is quickly becoming a name to know in the 2028 class. The quarterback out of Oviedo (Fla.) Lake Brantley<\/a> holds close to 20 offers, with FAU and USF jumping in during January.<\/p>\n

His only visit last month was to Florida State \u2014 and the Seminoles made it count.<\/p>\n

\u201cFlorida State has been a school that I love visiting,\u201d Stecher said. \u201cThe culture, atmosphere and relationships I have with the staff over there are special.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoach Austin Tucker came to see me in January too. The relationship we\u2019ve created since he\u2019s been hired as the QB coach is awesome. He\u2019s a really great guy and an awesome role model as a position coach.\u201d<\/p>\n

The comfort level in Tallahassee is clear, and Stecher confirmed he will \u201cdefinitely\u201d return this spring. Early in the process, Florida State has positioned itself firmly among the programs to beat.<\/p>\n

2028 WR Tony Brown III<\/p>\n

Tony Brown III<\/a> is a 2028 wide receiver out of Miami (Fla.) Columbus<\/a> is quickly building momentum on the recruiting trail, closing in on 20 offers before even entering the heart of his high school career.<\/p>\n

Several of those offers came in January, including Kentucky, Oregon<\/a>, SMU<\/a>, Louisville<\/a>, Pitt and Missouri<\/a> \u2014 a sign that major programs are already identifying upside in the young pass-catcher.<\/p>\n

His recruitment is still in its early stages, but one SEC program made a particularly strong impression last month.<\/p>\n

\u201cHead coach Will Stein<\/a> and wide receivers coach Joe Price III<\/a> of Kentucky made a strong impression on me in January,\u201d Brown said. \u201cThey really loved my film and complimented me on my dominant presence on the field and how big I play for my size.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Wildcats have positioned themselves firmly in the mix, but they are not alone.<\/p>\n

\u201cOregon, Kentucky, Pitt and SMU definitely have my interest,\u201d Brown said. \u201cI believe these schools have a proven history of developing and maximizing players who possess my style of play while giving me the \u2018best of both worlds,\u2019 which is earning a degree that carries real weight.\u201d<\/p>\n

At this stage, Brown remains open in the process and is focused on learning more about each program. When it comes to visits, he already has a short list in mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m open when it comes down to visiting, but I would want to visit Oregon, Kentucky, SMU and Pitt for sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 LB Steven Moore<\/p>\n

2028 linebacker Steven Moore<\/a> of Miami (Fla.) Central<\/a> is already one of the more heavily recruited defenders in South Florida, holding more than two dozen offers before the end of his sophomore year.<\/p>\n

In January, Moore added offers from Kentucky, Missouri and West Virginia<\/a>, further expanding a list that continues to grow at a steady pace.<\/p>\n

More than 10 programs made their way to see him during the contact period, reinforcing just how high his stock sits early in the 2028 cycle. That momentum will carry into a busy spring.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will be at Nebraska on March 26,\u201d Moore said. \u201cI am planning to lock in visits to Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Miami.\u201d<\/p>\n

While Moore has his eye on a list of schools, three have created early separation.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoach Heatherman is my guy at Miami,\u201d Moore said. \u201cI have a great relationship with him and I trust him. He came by to see me multiple times and showed me a lot of love at my game-day visits.\u201d<\/p>\n

Auburn has also positioned itself firmly in the mix.<\/p>\n

\u201cI like coach Durkin a lot at Auburn. He came down to see me and I visited there last spring. We have been building that relationship.\u201d<\/p>\n

Georgia Tech rounds out his early top group.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoach Eubanks and their recruiting coordinator have been building a relationship with me, and they have invited me up a lot, so I like them too. There are a couple other schools, but those are my top three.\u201d<\/p>\n

With consistent communication, spring visits on the calendar and multiple Power Four programs pushing hard, Moore\u2019s recruitment is only beginning to take shape \u2014 and the competition for the Miami Central standout is already intense.<\/p>\n

2028 CB Andre Jones<\/p>\n

Andre Jones<\/a> is quickly emerging as one of the top 2028 defensive backs in South Florida. The St. Thomas Aquinas standout is up to 18 offers, with Kentucky, Pitt, Georgia Tech, Purdue<\/a> and Boston College extending scholarships in January.<\/p>\n

A few programs have separated themselves early.<\/p>\n

\u201cKentucky, Florida State and Georgia Tech stand out right now,\u201d Jones said. \u201cI feel like all of their coaching staffs are very welcoming and I also like how they are developing players.\u201d<\/p>\n

There is also legacy in play. Jones has deep ties to Notre Dame and is planning a spring visit to South Bend.<\/p>\n

2028 WR Antron Branch<\/p>\n

McArthur<\/a> 2028 athlete Antron Branch<\/a> has 30-plus offers already. Big offers came in last month. Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Ole Miss and Virginia Tech were some that put their name in the hat. <\/p>\n

It is early, but after meeting with coaches in January, two schools have emerged as early favorites. <\/p>\n

\u201cVirginia Tech and Nebraska<\/a> have my interest right now. I\u2019m visiting both of those schools in March.
The coaches have been showing me a lot of love and i\u2019m looking for a coach who can take care of my family. They made a strong impression on me.\u201d<\/p>\n

2028 QB Brady Quinn <\/p>\n

Brady Quinn<\/a> is quickly gaining traction in the 2028 quarterback class. The Chaminade-Madonna signal-caller is already over two dozen offers and continues to draw national attention.<\/p>\n

In January, Quinn added offers from Kentucky, SMU<\/a> and Florida State, further expanding a list that spans multiple Power conferences.<\/p>\n

While he did not take any visits in January, several coaches made a strong impression during in-school stops.<\/p>\n

\u201cMarcus Freeman and Coach Gino from Notre Dame talked to me for a long time and we had a great conversation,\u201d Quinn said. \u201cWill Stein and Joe Sloan from Kentucky told me about what they are building and said they can\u2019t wait to get me up there. Coach Sumrall from Florida \u2014 you can tell he\u2019s fired up about this season. He gives off great vibes and energy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Even this early in the process, a handful of programs have his attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cIndiana, Kentucky, Florida, Miami and Syracuse,\u201d Quinn said. \u201cThose are programs I have great relationships with and can see myself at.\u201d<\/p>\n

Spring travel plans are beginning to take shape as well. Quinn expects to visit the three in-state programs \u2014 Florida, Miami and Florida State \u2014 while also working to get to Kentucky, Indiana, Notre Dame, Purdue and SMU in the coming months.<\/p>\n

2029 DL Kymani Nicholas<\/p>\n

Kymani Nicholas<\/a> has emerged as one of the top defensive line prospects in the 2029 cycle. The Bishop Verot<\/a> standout picked up multiple offers during January\u2019s evaluation period, including from Boston College, Liberty, Louisville and UCF.<\/p>\n

Nicholas first drew attention when he received an offer from Miami and USF last year, and that early interest helped position him as a sought-after recruit entering this calendar year.<\/p>\n

\u201cI visited Miami over the last summer,\u201d Nicholas said. \u201cI attended a camp, performed well, then went into Coach Taylor\u2019s office and secured my second Division I offer. What stands out to me about Miami is the coaching staff \u2014 everybody wants the same achievement and is all in on one goal. And the fan base is amazing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beyond Miami, Syracuse has also made a strong impression. Nicholas listed that program as another school he likes, and he plans to get a broader look at schools outside Florida this spring.<\/p>\n

With trips to Michigan, Ohio State and Wisconsin<\/a> under consideration, his recruitment will cover several regions and schemes before official visits take shape.<\/p>\n

2029 DL Meshi Dobson<\/p>\n

Meshi Dobson<\/a> is approaching 30 offers \u2014 and he is still just a freshman. The 2029 defensive lineman out of Plantation<\/a> added Missouri, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Texas in January, further elevating what has quickly become one of the fastest-growing offer sheets in South Florida.<\/p>\n

Dobson was back in Tallahassee in January for Junior Day at Florida State, and the visit strengthened his connection with the staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoach Nick Williams<\/a> and the defensive staff made me feel like I was one of their players already,\u201d Dobson said. \u201cCoach Nick reminds me of my defensive line coach and mentor, Coach Strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

Florida State has positioned itself well early, and Dobson plans to return in the coming months as relationships continue to develop.<\/p>\n

National programs are also prioritizing the freshman standout. Ohio State and Oklahoma are two visits Dobson hopes to lock in soon.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love Coach Miguel Chavis<\/a>\u2019 energy. I am a high-energy guy and he matches my energy well,\u201d Dobson said. \u201cCoach Larry Johnson<\/a> spoke highly of me to my coaches and told them I am one of the one-percent guys. I want to visit both schools.\u201d<\/p>\n

Auburn, Miami, Syracuse and Texas are also firmly in the mix as Dobson\u2019s recruitment continues to expand.<\/p>\n

For a prospect this early in the process, the combination of production, upside and relationship-building has already placed Dobson on a national trajectory.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"After a very good start in Atlanta a couple of weeks ago, the Rivals Camp Series headed South…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":156842,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[75237,75238,75239,75240,75241,75242,75243,75244,75245,75246,75247,75248,75249,75250,75251,75252,75253,75254,48220,75255,75256,75257,75258,75259,10891,75260,49937,75261,123,125,124,75262,75263,75264,75265,75266,75267,75268,75269,75270],"class_list":["post-156841","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-miami","tag-ahmari-stevens-27-edison","tag-alan-blackshere-27-miami-carol-city","tag-alexander-beltran","tag-amare-patterson-27-bluffton","tag-andre-jones-28-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-antron-branch-28-mcarthur","tag-arwin-jackson-27-miami-carol-city","tag-austan-cristiaan-28-bishop-verot","tag-austin-coles-27-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-blake-mccullough-28-bishop-moore-catholic","tag-brady-quinn-28-chaminade-madonna-prep","tag-demarcus-deroche-27-cardinal-gibbons","tag-dj-hunter-27-buford","tag-elias-pearl-27-port-charlotte","tag-jackson-stecher-28-lake-brantley","tag-jaden-carey-27-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-jaiden-kelly-murray-27-oceanside-collegiate-academy","tag-jamarin-simmons-27-amos-p-godby","tag-james-perrone-27-miami-southridge","tag-jemari-foreman-27-plantation","tag-jj-brown-27-parkview","tag-julius-jones-27-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-kymani-nicholas-29-bishop-verot","tag-landon-wolny-27-fort-myers","tag-lane-kiffin-94-jefferson","tag-maleek-lee-27-booker","tag-mark-matthews-27-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-meshi-dobson-28-plantation","tag-miami","tag-miami-headlines","tag-miami-news","tag-neimann-lawrence-28-northwestern","tag-reed-ramsier-27-the-first-academy","tag-samari-howard-27-st-thomas-aquinas","tag-sean-tatum-27-john-carroll","tag-steven-moore-28-miami-central","tag-stive-bentley-keumajou-27-coral-gables-senior","tag-tony-brown-iii-28-columbus","tag-tromon-isaac-28-chaminade-madonna-prep","tag-tyler-alexander-27-palm-beach-central"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/156841","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=156841"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/156841\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/156842"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=156841"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=156841"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=156841"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}