The Hurricanes closed out another explosive week on the recruiting front by adding their fourth commitment in just seven days. Visalia (Calif.) tight end Israel Briggs, a consensus top‑150 prospect and No. 8 TE nationally, pledged to Miami on Tuesday—solidifying their status as one of the country’s hottest programs .
Briggs, listed No. 131 overall in the On3 Industry Rankings, chose the Canes over rival LSU after building strong relationships with Miami coaches during his official visit on June 13 . Reflecting on his decision, he said, “I really checked every box off at Miami… Coach Woodiel, Alec Da Silva, coach Cristobal… they kept in touch through the rough and the times I was shining” .
He’s not alone in this wave. Earlier in the week, Miami secured commitments from four-star EDGE Asharri Charles, four-star WR Vance Spafford—a notable flip from Georgia—and four-star 2027 S Jaylyn Jones . Briggs is now the 11th four-star and 17th total commit in Miami’s 2026 class, which now ranks among the top 10 nationally .
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🔍 What This Means for Miami
Elite depth at TE: Briggs’ addition gives Miami a dynamic, multi‑positional tight end who can flex into H‑back and receiving roles, matching perfectly with coordinator Shannon Dawson’s creative offense .
Momentum on the rise: Four commits in one week—including a high-profile starter like Spafford—underscore Miami’s recruiting surge under Mario Cristobal.
National footprint: From California and Florida to Georgia and now Texas/flips, Miami’s recruiting reach continues growing wider—and stronger.
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🔄 The Recruitment Power Play
Miami’s coaching staff, led by Cristobal, has maintained relentless contact through summer visits, relationship building, and NIL-powered experiences. Briggs said he committed because he “checked every box,” highlighting the holistic appeal of the Hurricanes’ pitch. And insiders say each commitment builds on the last—creating unstoppable recruiting momentum .
With the class now featuring a top-150 tight end, rising edge, explosive receiver, and a foundation safety, Miami appears poised to challenge blue-chip programs for national dominance in the 2026 cycle.
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The Hurricanes are not just recruiting—they’re making statements. And with one week still left in