Which Miami Hurricanes Football Newcomers Will Earn Starting Jobs In 2023?
In this story:
Mario Cristobal has helped the Hurricanes raise their talent floor heading into the 2023 season. Between recent transfers and a number of promising incoming freshmen, the Canes have likely added around two dozen contributors.
But how many of them will earn a top spot on the depth chart?
Stone cold locks
Former Alabama left guard Javion Cohen and UCF transfer center Matt Lee have already cemented themselves as top dogs.
On special teams, Australian punter Dylan Joyce will step in as Lou Hedley's replacement.
Probable starters
Unlike the three above, these players still have some work to do, but are well on their way to cracking the starting lineup.
OT Francis Mauigoa- The early enrollee freshman held down the starting spot at right tackle for the final thirteen out of fifteen spring football practices. He's ready physically at 6-5, 335 lbs. According to his position coach, he's beyond his years mentally, too.
LB Francisco Mauigoa - This is starting to feel like a Mauigoa takeover! Older brother Francisco, a transfer from Washington State, really stood out at Mike linebacker during spring football.
CB Davonte Brown- Davonte is likely to be a starting boundary cornerback for the Canes. The UCF transfer will most likely line up opposite Daryl Porter Jr on the other side, with Te'Cory Couch lining up at the Star.
In the mix to win jobs
Here are some players to watch who can put themselves into healthy competitions to earn a starting role.
DE Rueben Bain- The early enrollee recorded three sacks in the spring game and has been taking up residence in the backfield since arriving in Coral Gables. If not for the fact that Miami is very deep on the edge, I'd have put Bain in the probable category.
DTs Branson Deen & Thomas Gore- Both have stepped up significantly during spring football after transferring in from Purdue and Georgia State, respectively. Depending on the health, consistency and development from returning players like Leonard Taylor, Jared Harrison-Hunte and Ahmad Moten, Gore and Deen will each have an opportunity to crack that depth chart.
Did we leave anyone out who could be on the cusp or earning a starting spot?
AllHurricanes.com is your home for all things Miami Hurricanes football, recruiting, basketball and other athletics, all the time. Follow along on social media at @AllHurricanes on Twitter and All Hurricanes on Facebook for round-the-clock news and analysis.
