Miami’s 2026 quarterback commit, Dereon Coleman, is heading into the Elite 11 Finals in Manhattan Beach, California, with his stock on the rise. A standout dual‑threat from Orlando (Jones HS), Coleman—rated around No. 19 nationally at QB—brings an intriguing mix of mobility, arm talent, and charisma to the camp .
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🏈 Player Profile & Stats
School: Jones HS, Orlando, FL
Size & Rankings: Approximately 6’0½”, 160 lbs; ranked No. 13 QB and 28th player in Florida for the 2026 class .
Offensive Weapon: Over the past two seasons, completed 69.0% of passes (5,648 yards, 44 TDs, 10 INTs) and rushed for 702 yards with 8 touchdowns . In 2024 alone, his completion rate rose to 72.8% with a QBR of 141.2 .
This statistical output defines him as a legitimate dual-threat, reminiscent of Miami’s recent QB stars like D’Eriq King.
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🔍 Elite 11 Finals – What’s Being Said
Elite 11 analysts are noting Coleman’s lightning-quick release, compact mechanics, and arm velocity:
CBS Sports reporter Bud Elliot remarked, *“Miami commit Dereon Coleman has been one of the early standouts … impressing with his arm talent and mechanics. He’s throwing the ball with excellent velocity and a tight, compact release.”*
CBS’ Andrew Ivins compared his passing mechanics and poise to past camp MVP candidates .
Coleman himself set the tone, boldly declaring, “They saw what Cam (Ward) did and they only got a year of that. Imagine me being there 3–4 years … We are going to go win a national championship.” That swagger aligns him with Miami’s vision of reclaiming its place among college football’s elite .
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🔧 Why This Matters for Miami
1. Game Changer in QB Room
Miami’s current quarterback depth chart features upperclassmen like Carson Beck (a Georgia transfer), but Coleman represents the future—more mobile, more dynamic, and a long-term cornerstone.
2. Recruiting Magnet
As Miami’s longest-committed 2026 recruit, Coleman carries weight in attracting other high-profile prospects