The Miami Hurricanes really had a wild ride this season, finishing with a National Championship Game appearance. Now that it’s all over, everyone’s focus shifts to the transfer portal as they look to reload for another shot at the title in 2026.
This article takes a look at the Hurricanes’ key departures and additions, offering a snapshot of how the roster is shaping up. If you want the full breakdown of transfer portal moves, check out State of the U.
Key Departures
The Hurricanes have watched quite a few players announce they’re leaving. Some want more playing time, others are reacting to coaching changes, and a few are after better financial deals elsewhere.
Here’s a rundown of some notable names who’ve moved on:
Quarterback and Running Back Departures
QB Emory Williams left for East Carolina after spending most of his time as a backup at Miami. He was always a program guy, but let’s be honest—he wasn’t going to start here.
RB Girard Pringle Jr., a promising freshman, jumped into the portal because he was frustrated with his role. Miami talked him into sticking around, so he’s not going anywhere for now.
Wide Receiver Departures
Wide receiver has been hit pretty hard:
- WR Chance Robinson is off to North Carolina State for a fresh start.
- WR Ny Carr heads to Wake Forest after struggling to show his high school form at Miami.
- WR Ray Ray Joseph will join Emory Williams at East Carolina.
- WR Jojo Trader is also leaving, hoping for better opportunities somewhere else.
Offensive Line and Defensive Line Departures
The trenches lost a few guys too:
- OL Nino Francavilla and OT Deryc Plazz are gone, with Plazz signing at Auburn.
- OT Tommy Kinsler IV might join Plazz at Auburn, but Ole Miss is still in the mix.
- DT Donta Simpson, a freshman who logged over 100 snaps, signed with Missouri.
- DT Artavius Jones and DT Daylen Russell left too, with Russell heading to Louisville.
Linebacker and Defensive Back Departures
The defense isn’t immune either:
- EDGE/LB Malik Bryant signed with Missouri.
- LB Bobby Washington Jr. is looking for a new home.
- CB Charles Brantley returns to Michigan State.
- DB Jadais Richard and S Amari Wallace are leaving to find more playing time.
Key Additions
Even with all the exits, Miami’s been busy adding new faces through the portal. These guys should help fill gaps and maybe even surprise us next season.
Defensive Additions
Missouri EDGE Damon Wilson II headlines the group, bringing serious talent to the defensive line. Wilson, a former 5-star, had a breakout year at Missouri and should make an immediate difference.
Ohio State DT Jarquez Carter comes in as a blue-chip recruit. Carter’s expected to play a big role in the defensive rotation.
Boston College S Omar Thornton heads back home to South Florida, adding some much-needed experience to the secondary. Thornton picked up honorable mention All-ACC honors last year, so he’s no slouch.
Offensive Additions
The offense is getting a boost too:
- South Carolina WR Vandrevius Jacobs and West Virginia WR Cam Vaughn bring some big-play ability to the wideout group.
- Georgia OT Jamal Meriweather adds size and strength up front, which is huge since four starters are headed to the NFL.
Special Teams Additions
Special teams needed help, so Miami picked up two kickers:
- Northwestern K Jack Olsen is a steady option, going 19/21 on field goals last season. His leg isn’t the strongest, but he gets the job done.
- Florida State K Jake Weinberg has a cannon for a leg but needs to work on accuracy after hitting just 12/19 at FSU.
Potential Additions
Miami’s not done yet. They’re still chasing some big names to finish out the 2026 roster.
Duke QB Darian Mensah
Duke QB Darian Mensah is the top target right now. Mensah put up huge numbers last season—3,973 yards, 34 touchdowns, and only six picks, earning second-team All-ACC honors.
But here’s the snag: Duke is actually suing to keep Mensah in Durham. The legal mess could make or break Miami’s plans at quarterback. Stay tuned, because this one’s far from over.
Duke WR Cooper Barkate
Duke WR Cooper Barkate stands out as a player worth watching. Barkate led Mensah’s receivers, racking up 72 catches for 1,106 yards and seven touchdowns.
Bringing him in would give Miami’s receiving corps a real shot in the arm. He’s got the numbers and the energy to shake things up.
Right now, over 4,000 players have entered the transfer portal. Miami has a lot of choices if it wants to keep building up its roster.
If you want the full breakdown of transfer portal action, check out the article on State of the U.
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