In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, four-star linebacker Adarius Hayes has flipped his commitment from the University of Florida to the University of Miami. The Largo (FL) standout had been committed to the Gators for months, but on Saturday, he announced his change of heart, pledging to join Mario Cristobal’s Hurricanes instead.
Hayes, ranked among the top linebacker prospects in the 2025 class, is a massive pickup for Miami. At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, he brings a rare blend of speed, athleticism, and football IQ that makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer, cover in space, and lead a defense has drawn comparisons to some of the top linebackers in recent college football history.
This flip marks a major recruiting win for Cristobal and his staff, who continue to build momentum heading into the summer. Hayes had long been viewed as a cornerstone of Florida’s 2025 defensive class, and his departure is a blow to Billy Napier’s efforts to stabilize the Gators’ recruiting base. The move adds another chapter to the growing rivalry between the two in-state programs, as both battle not only for on-field supremacy but also for control of Florida’s top-tier talent.
Hayes cited Miami’s defensive scheme, his relationship with the coaching staff, and the program’s trajectory as key reasons for his decision. “Coach Cristobal and Coach Nicholson made me feel like a priority from day one,” Hayes said. “The energy, the vision, and the opportunity to be part of something special really stood out.”
For Miami, this commitment adds to an already impressive defensive haul, signaling that the ‘Canes are serious about returning to national relevance. With Hayes now on board, Miami’s 2025 class jumps even higher in the national rankings and continues to build a foundation for future success.
Florida, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly, as losing a high-profile in-state talent to a conference rival always stings. The Gators will likely ramp up efforts to fill the void, but Hayes’ flip is a reminder of how fierce the recruiting battles are in the Sunshine State.