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In the ever-competitive landscape of college football recruiting, national analyst John Garcia Jr. offers a glimpse into Miami’s ambitions as they aim for a top-five recruiting class. Highlights include an IMG Academy star choosing to stay in Florida for college and a seasoned commitment from Maryland landing in the SEC.
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EXPLORING CANTWELL’S COMMITMENT: Five pivotal moments that led Cantwell to Miami | Miami pulls off a stunner | Gorney: Kirby, UGA did everything right but it wasn’t enough | Cantwell’s decision stings Georgia the most | How often do No. 1 prospects flip from their original commitment? | Cantwell will be catalyst for Miami’s next top class | CanesCounty.com coverage
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MIAMI AIMS FOR ELITE RECRUITING SUCCESS
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The recent commitment of Jackson Cantwell signifies a pivotal moment for Mario Cristobal‘s campaign to forge one of the nation’s premier offensive line classes. His choice is set to invigorate interest among other top prospects eyeing Miami.
Currently, the Hurricanes find themselves positioned at eighth on the Rivals recruiting list, yet there’s a tangible chance they can scale into the top five.
Miami has a history of effective recruiting, but its recent success in securing Cantwell—who rejected overtures from Georgia and Oregon—has sent waves of optimism throughout their coaching staff as they pursue even more elite talent.
The next key target is standout running back from South Florida, Derrek Cooper. This five-star athlete boasts an enviable roster of offers and has recently hosted coaches from renowned programs including Ohio State and Texas for visits. Currently, both Miami and Georgia are seen as the frontrunners for his highly anticipated commitment.
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Recalling previous successes, it’s clear once more that the Hurricanes are engaged in fierce battles for the region’s top talent. Under Cristobal’s guidance, they are gaining traction and confidence. Bringing Cooper on board would mark a significant win for Miami, especially following the earlier signing of Bryce Fitzgerald in 2025.
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DUYON FORKPA OPTS FOR A FLORIDA COLLEGE
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Having transferred to IMG Academy from Georgia this past season, Duyon Forkpa has quickly emerged as a prospect to follow closely. His remarkable speed, having clocked in below 4.5 seconds in the 40-yard dash, has heightened his visibility and recruitment prospects in Florida.
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Forkpa previously visited Florida State this spring, then followed up with a visit to the Florida Gators, where he appears to have shifted his focus toward. However, competition is fierce, with schools like Michigan and Colorado also vying for his attention, although there’s a palpable momentum building for Billy Napier‘s program in Gainesville.
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BRIAN HARRIS TO JOIN AN SEC TEAM
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Once committed to Maryland before gaining numerous offers, Brian Harris has now narrowed his recruitment to five elite programs: Alabama, Michigan, Oklahoma, Penn State, and South Carolina, with a decision anticipated around May 23. The Big Ten has maintained a strong presence in this recruitment, especially with Penn State seeming to have led early in the spring; however, the focus has undeniably shifted towards the SEC.
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The trend of his recruitment heavily favors SEC institutions, not only prompted by the array of offers but also aided by pivotal visits. His latest trip to Alabama following their offer has sparked heightened interest, while his visit to Oklahoma proved to be a significant catalyst. South Carolina was the initial SEC team to take an interest, laying the groundwork for his recruitment.
Sources close to the Jacksonville prospect suggest that Oklahoma and South Carolina are likely to be the key players as he approaches a final decision.
