Even a successful season with a 10-2 record doesn’t mean the Miami Hurricanes can afford to rest on their laurels. With a tough loss that kept them out of the College Football Playoff, the team is still keenly aware of their needs heading into the offseason. As they prepare for the Pop-Tarts Bowl on December 28, Miami has already made some moves in the transfer portal, including the acquisition of wide receiver CJ Daniels from LSU. However, they must remain vigilant as they look to bolster their roster further.
Miami’s Transfer Portal Strategy
The transfer portal has become a critical aspect of college football, and Miami is no exception. With a handful of players already exiting, it’s likely that more Hurricanes will seek new opportunities after the bowl game. This is a crucial time for head coach Mario Cristobal, who has solidified his status with the program but knows that the journey to the top is ongoing. The Hurricanes must identify key players who can step in and make an immediate impact.
Five Transfer Portal Targets for Miami
As Miami looks to strengthen its roster, here are five players in the transfer portal that could significantly enhance the team’s chances in 2025:
1. Fernando Mendoza, California
The departure of quarterback Reese Poffenbarger and the impending NFL entry of Cam Ward have left Miami in search of a new leader under center. Enter Fernando Mendoza, a talented quarterback who threw for 3,004 yards and 16 touchdowns during his sophomore season at Cal. While he may not possess the same mobility as Ward, Mendoza has the skill set to take over the QB1 role and could be a game-changer for the Hurricanes with two seasons of eligibility remaining.
2. Tacario Davis, Arizona
At 6-foot-4, Tacario Davis is a lockdown cornerback who has made a name for himself in the transfer portal. Over the past two seasons at Arizona, he has broken up 23 passes, showcasing his ability to shut down opposing receivers. Although his numbers dipped slightly in 2024, many offenses have opted not to target him at all. Davis could transform a position of uncertainty into a strength for Miami, making him a top priority.
3. Charles Brantley, Michigan State
Miami’s secondary has faced some challenges with recent departures, making it imperative to recruit experienced talent. Charles Brantley, a four-year player at Michigan State, fits the bill perfectly. In a standout 2024 season, he recorded 27 tackles and broke up 10 passes, including three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. While he has only one year of eligibility left, his veteran presence could provide a significant boost to the Hurricanes’ defense.
4. Fa’alili Fa’amoe, Washington State
The offensive line is another area where Miami needs to bolster its ranks, especially with Antonio Tripp entering the portal. Fa’alili Fa’amoe, an athletic lineman who started two years at tackle for Washington State, could be the answer. His versatility and experience would make him a valuable addition to the Hurricanes’ offensive front, allowing him to compete for playing time immediately.
5. Blake Glessner, UCLA
Special teams often get overlooked, but they play a crucial role in a team’s success. Miami recently lost a freshman kicker, and while specialists are not frequently active in the portal, Blake Glessner from UCLA is an exception. With experience in both kickoffs and place-kicking, Glessner could provide stability in the kicking game for at least one season, giving Miami the time needed to recruit a long-term solution.
Looking Ahead: Miami’s Future
As the Hurricanes gear up for their bowl game, the focus will also be on how they can improve their roster for the upcoming season. The transfer portal is a vital tool in this process, and Miami’s proactive approach is commendable. With the right additions, they could build on their successful 2024 season and position themselves as serious contenders in the coming years.
What do you think of the potential transfer portal targets for Miami? Are there any players you believe the Hurricanes should prioritize? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
As the offseason unfolds, Miami fans should keep a close eye on the transfer portal. With the right moves, the Hurricanes can continue to rise in the ranks of college football, and it all starts with strategic decisions made today. The excitement is palpable, and the future looks bright for Miami football!
