ESPN recently highlighted “Post-spring Top 25 teams’ biggest question marks heading into the fall,” focusing on roster depth for the Miami football team, ranked 24th nationally.
Head coach Mario Cristobal has made significant strides in bolstering the roster as he enters his third season.
Miami ranked 12th in the 2023 247Sports Team Talent Composite rankings. With the fourth-best 2024 recruiting class and a top-10 group from the transfer portal, Miami is poised to climb these rankings. The transfer portal additions have notably strengthened the team’s depth.
Key acquisitions include edge rushers Elijah Alston and Tyler Baron, enhancing one of the nation’s deepest groups at that position. Returning players like Rueben Bain, the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, and Akheem Mesidor, who missed much of 2023, further bolster the defensive line.
Transfers such as Simeon Barrow from Michigan State, C.J. Clark from North Carolina State, and Marley Cook from Middle Tennessee State are expected to lead at defensive tackle. These additions are crucial for Miami’s upgraded 2024 roster.
Andrea Adelson of ESPN also noted improvements in Miami’s secondary. Cornerbacks Damari Brown and Mishael Powell, along with transfers like Dyoni Hill from Marshall and Isaiah Taylor from Arizona, add depth.
Freshman Zaquan Patterson and redshirt freshman Robert Stafford are players to watch for significant contributions.
Overall, Miami’s depth and talent have improved considerably for the 2024 season, positioning the team to overcome past challenges and make significant strides.
