Miami Hurricanes Bolster Defensive Backfield with Addition of Four-Star Cornerback Jaboree Antoine

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
20/07/2024 23h59

The Miami Hurricanes continue to strengthen their defensive back haul as they secured a commitment from highly-touted cornerback Jaboree Antoine. The four-star prospect from New Iberia (La.) Westgate announced his decision to join Miami, choosing the ACC program over in-state powerhouse LSU.

Antoine's commitment marked a significant boost for the Hurricanes in the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. With his addition, Miami climbed three spots, now claiming the No. 9 class in the nation. Notably, they surpassed top programs such as Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Florida State in the process.

Expressing his excitement about joining Miami, Antoine told On3's Chad Simmons that he loved the program's fit for his playing style. He highlighted the opportunity to make an early impact and play alongside great people. Antoine recognized that Miami had the type of individuals he resonated with, making the decision to commit an easy one.

With Antoine on board, the Hurricanes now boast eight top-200 recruits in their recruiting class this cycle. Led by a strong contingent of in-state talents, Miami's class has reached a total of 19 prospects. Notably, the four highest-ranked commits all joined the program this month.

The commitment spree began with four-star linebacker Gavin Nix from Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy on July 1. Following Nix, safety Hytlon Stubbs from Jacksonville Mandarin, interior offensive lineman SJ Alofaituli from Las Vegas Bishop Gorman, and now Antoine solidified their commitments to Miami.

Stubbs, who sits atop the class as the No. 55 overall prospect and No. 4 safety in the nation, chose the Hurricanes over Florida due to their strong interest in him. He and his father analyzed the team's depth chart and identified the opportunity for early playing time. Stubbs cited Miami's impressive defensive line and front seven as factors that influenced his decision.

Alofaituli quickly followed Stubbs, committing just 24 hours later. Like Stubbs, he is a top-100 recruit and the No. 5 interior offensive lineman in the cycle. Nix, who hails from Florida and is ranked as the No. 16 linebacker in the nation, rounds out the trio of high-profile commitments.

Antoine and Stubbs represent just half of the impressive group of blue-chip defensive backs in Miami's recruiting class. Cornerback Chris Ewald from Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna pledged his commitment on June 27, while safety Amari Wallace from Miami Central joined a week prior.

In addition to the defensive backs, Miami has secured commitments from other top recruits, including running back Girard Pringle from Tampa Armwood, linebacker Elijah Melendez from Kissimmee (Fla.) Osceola, and tight end Brock Schott from Leo (Ind.). The class also features quarterback Luke Nickel from Alpharetta (Ga.) Milton, tight end Luka Gilbert from Cincinnati Lakota West, interior offensive lineman Max Buchanan from Sanford Seminole, and wide receiver Daylyn Upshaw from Phenix City (Ala.) Central.

With these impressive additions, the Miami Hurricanes have positioned themselves as a formidable force in the recruiting landscape. Head coach Mario Cristobal and his staff continue to build a strong foundation for the future, instilling excitement among fans and setting high expectations for the upcoming seasons.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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