The Miami Hurricanes’ 2026 recruiting class is gaining momentum, particularly in the cornerback position, with several top-tier prospects flipping their commitments to join The U. These strategic moves underscore Miami’s growing appeal and the effectiveness of its coaching staff in securing elite talent.
**1. Jaelen Waters – Former Florida Commit**
Jaelen Waters, a 6-foot-2, 180-pound cornerback from Seffner, Florida, initially committed to Florida but decided to flip to Miami. His decision was influenced by his connection with Miami’s coaching staff, including head coach Mario Cristobal and defensive backs coach Will Harris, both of whom had previously recruited him at Florida. Waters’ familiarity with the staff and the program’s vision played a significant role in his commitment .([My Blog][1])
**2. Zyan Gibson – Alabama Commit**
Zyan Gibson, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound cornerback from Gadsden City, Alabama, had been committed to Alabama since December 2024. However, Miami’s new defensive backs coach, Zac Etheridge, made a concerted effort to recruit Gibson, visiting him in January 2025. Gibson’s recruitment is ongoing, and Miami is positioning itself as a strong contender to flip his commitment .([Canes Warning][2])
**3. Antione Jackson – Georgia Commit**
Antione Jackson, a 6-foot-1 cornerback from Dillard High School in Florida, committed to Georgia in March 2024. Despite his commitment, Jackson maintained strong ties with Miami, attending multiple unofficial visits. His relationship with the coaching staff and the program’s proximity to his home influenced his decision to flip to Miami in April 2024 .([SI][3])
**4. Camdin Portis – Legacy Commitment**
Camdin Portis, a 6-foot, 165-pound cornerback from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the son of former Miami star running back Clinton Portis. He committed to Miami in October 2024, choosing the Hurricanes over several other programs. Portis’ legacy connection to Miami and his admiration for the program’s tradition and coaching staff were pivotal in his decision .([State of The U][4], [CanesInSight][5])
**5. Ksani Jiles – IMG Academy Standout**
Ksani Jiles, a 6-foot, 175-pound cornerback from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, committed to Miami in May 2023. His commitment was part of Miami’s strategy to build a pipeline from IMG Academy, a school known for producing elite talent. Jiles’ early commitment helped Miami secure a top-tier prospect and set the tone for the 2026 recruiting class .([CanesInSight][6], [SI][7])
**Conclusion**
The Miami Hurricanes’ ability to flip commitments from other top programs highlights the effectiveness of their recruiting strategy and the strength of their coaching staff. With commitments from elite cornerbacks like Jaelen Waters, Zyan Gibson, Antione Jackson, Camdin Portis, and Ksani Jiles, Miami is positioning itself as a formidable force in college football recruiting. These flips not only bolster the team’s defensive backfield but also demonstrate the program’s growing national appeal and the confidence recruits have in Miami’s future success.