Where Miami Stands With Top DB Recruiting Targets Ahead Of Spring Visits | Donno Podcast
The Miami Hurricanes are placing significant emphasis on recruiting defensive backs for the class of 2025. With the appointment of Chevis Jackson as the new cornerbacks coach, Miami aims to maintain its competitiveness in securing key in-state recruits. While the team has successfully added talented defensive backs in recent recruitment cycles, they have fallen short in landing five-star prospects such as Cormani McClain in 2023 and Ellis Robinson IV in 2024. The last five-star defensive back the Hurricanes recruited was safety James Williams in the 2021 class.
In a discussion with my colleague Brian Smith on the Locked On Canes podcast, we explored Miami’s current standing with crucial defensive back targets for the 2025 class.
Regarding 5-star prospect DJ Pickett, Smith stated, “Miami is either leading or in close competition with LSU or possibly Oregon.” There are speculations that Miami sees Pickett as a cornerback rather than a safety due to his exceptional height, approximately 6 feet 4 inches.
Pickett’s cousin, Booker Pickett Jr, will be joining Miami as a four-star defensive end, further highlighting the family connection. Smith mentioned that Pickett is highly respected by opposing teams, making it difficult to gather film on him because “he rarely gets targeted.”
As for 4-star recruit Chris Ewald, Smith believes he might be Miami’s top priority in South Florida. Ewald is regarded as one of the top 10 cornerbacks in the region. He is scheduled to visit Miami unofficially on March 8th and will also explore SEC powerhouses like LSU, Auburn, Texas A&M, and Tennessee during the spring. Smith anticipates Ewald’s decision may extend until National Signing Day, acknowledging Miami as a strong contender but noting the allure of the SEC.
Despite being a legacy at the University of Florida, 4-star prospect Ben Hanks Jr., from Booker T. Washington, is considered to be leaning towards Miami in his recruitment, according to Smith. Despite his family ties to the Gators, Smith believes Miami holds a favorable position in securing his commitment. Smith rates Hanks as the second-best cornerback in South Florida behind Ewald from Chaminade-Madonna.
