Miami facing uphill battle to flip 2024 DL target, but Hurricanes’ chances are still alive
Miami’s 2024 recruiting picture is becoming increasingly clear with eight weeks left until the December early signing period, particularly along the defensive line.
The Hurricanes have continued to target Columbus (Ohio) Thomas Worthington three-star interior defensive lineman Francis Brewu over the last month since they offered him, although the 6-foot-3, 265-pound defensive lineman has remained committed to Pittsburgh since March. Miami’s coaching staff has made a steady effort for Brewu, who had offers from many Big Ten and midwestern programs including Michigan State, Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the Hurricanes have worked quickly to build a bond with the three-star target.
But he said whether or not he chooses to visit Miami this fall will come down to the relationships he’s able to build with the Hurricanes’ coaching staff.
“We’ve been talking about coming (to Miami) for a visit and stuff like that,” Brewu said. “I’ve talked to them a decent amount. I like Miami, but I’m just locked in with Pitt right now. …We talk about just life and stuff most of the time, like how I’m doing, how they’re doing, just stuff like that. Normal conversations pretty much.”
How likely is it Brewu makes a visit to Miami before signing day? And will it depend on what works out in his schedule, or will there be other factors in play as well?
“Relationship,” Brewu said. “If we build a strong relationship, there’s definitely a chance.”
Brewu’s relationships with Pitt’s coaching staff, and particularly his love for Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi, were major reasons for his interest in the Panthers and decision to ultimately commit. He said he committed to the Panthers because he felt the school was the ideal fit for him, and he’s remained locked in with Pitt.
He added he feels Miami can grow its relationship with him through persistence, steady recruiting effort and demonstrating that he’s wanted and needed on campus, which are the primary reasons for his interest in Pitt.
CaneSport’s Take
Brewu is one of three 2024 interior defensive linemen to receive a Miami offer within the last two months along with Grayson (Ga.) three-star uncommitted prospect Nasir Smith and Leesburg (Ga.) Lee County uncommitted prospect Leroy Jackson, which came as five-star defensive linemen David Stone and LJ McCray and four-star defensive lineman Aydin Breland chose other programs over Miami.
The Hurricanes will still circle back to committed prospects and work to flip blue-chip prospects in the month before signing day as they did last year, however, and can be expected to be active in the transfer portal in December.
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