Where Miami Stands With Top DB Recruiting Targets Ahead Of Spring Visits | Donno Podcast
Defensive back is shaping up to be a major position of emphasis for the Miami Hurricanes so far in recruiting the class of 2025.
Miami's new cornerbacks coach Chevis Jackson will look to keep the Canes trending with some of the most important in-state targets. While the Canes have added some excellent DB's in recent cycles, they've missed out five star targets like Cormani McClain in 2023 and Ellis Robinson IV in '24. The last time the Hurricanes landed a five star DB was safety James Williams in the class of 2021.
I sat down with colleague Brian Smith on my Locked On Canes podcast to discuss how Miami is trending with their most important defensive back targets for the class of 2025.
5-Star DJ Pickett - "Miami is either at the top for Pickett right now or right there with LSU or maybe Oregon," Smith said. It's been rumored that Miami envisions Pickett at cornerback more than at safety. Pickett's length, around 6-4, is elite. Pickett's cousin, Booker Pickett Jr, is enrolling at Miami this summer as a four star defensive end. Smith noted to me that DJ is so respected by opposing teams that it's hard to get film on him because "nobody throws at him."
4-Star Chris Ewald - "He might be (Miami's) number one target in all of South Florida." Smith considers Ewald to be a top 10 cornerback. Ewald will be visiting Miami on March 8th for an unofficial. He will also visit SEC powers LSU, Auburn, Texas A&M and Tennessee this spring. Smith feels Ewald's decision might extend all the way until National Signing Day. Smith thinks Miami should be considered the favorite but that "the SEC has got his attention."
4-Star Ben Hanks Jr - Despite Hanks being a Florida Gators legacy, Smith thinks Miami is in a pretty good spot in his recruitment. "I'm gonna pick Miami here," said Smith. He considers Hanks (out of Booker T. Washington) to be the second best South Florida cornerback behind Ewald (Chaminade-Madonna.)
More: Why Miami's Next Defensive Backs Coach Will Be An Excellent Recruiter
