Anthony Kennedy Jr., a Big 4-star defensive lineman out of Little Rock Maumelle (Arkansas), recently ended a brief commitment to Missouri and rocked the 2026 recruiting world by pledging to the Miami Hurricanes. Standing roughly 6‑foot‑3½ and 285 pounds, Kennedy ranks as the No. 376 overall recruit and No. 34 defensive lineman in the cycle per On3’s Industry Rankings—and is considered the No. 5 prospect in Arkansas ([on3.com][1]).
His talent, versatility, and high ceiling have caught the eyes of top programs across the country—including Georgia, Texas A\&M, Tennessee, Auburn, Texas, Florida, and USC ([on3.com][1]). Kennedy’s decision to choose Miami is a significant coup, underscoring both his growth in recruitment and the program’s rising national profile.
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**2. The Process: Decommit, Visit, and Decide**
Kennedy initially committed to Missouri around December 2023, drawn by multiple visits and strong rapport with coaches there ([247footballnow.com][2]). But on May 16, he announced on X that his recruitment was “100‑percent open” after de‑committing from the Tigers ([on3.com][1]).
That same week, Miami’s DL coach Jason Taylor made a strong impression during a in‑person visit to Little Rock. Kennedy confirmed he’ll be on campus this week for an official visit, signaling that Miami was firmly in the mix ([on3.com][1]). He eventually chose the Canes, a testament both to the coaching staff’s vision and the atmosphere they’ve built.
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**3. What Kennedy Brings**
• **Size & Physicality**: Projected at approximately 6‑3½, 285 pounds, Kennedy boasts the frame to play inside or as a 3‑technique—ideal for Miami’s multi-front defensive looks ([miamiherald.com][3], [on3.com][1]).
• **Explosive Skillset**: Known for a quick burst off the ball and disrupting run and pass plays, Kennedy’s athleticism sets him apart from many of his contemporaries ([247footballnow.com][2]).
• **Proven Production**: He’s recorded solid high school numbers—11 tackles for loss and six sacks this past season—showing consistent aggression at the line of scrimmage ([ugawire.usatoday.com][4]).
This combination of size, athleticism, and measured production makes him a plug‑and‑play recruit—and a potential impact player from Day 1 at Miami.
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**4. Miami’s Vision & Recruiting Surge**
Kennedy’s commitment comes on the heels of another big win: 5-star OT Jackson Cantwell, the top overall prospect in the 2026 cycle, also went to Miami earlier this month ([forum.themiamihurricanes.com][5], [on3.com][1]). The Hurricanes have now amassed 10 total commits, boosting them to No. 8 nationally in On3’s team recruiting rankings ([on3.com][1]).
Miami’s early class features strong defensive talent:
* 4‑star LB Jordan Campbell (No. 7 LB nationally)
* 4‑star CB Jaelen Waters (No. 17 CB)
* 4‑star CB Jontavious Wyman (via April flip)
* 4‑star CB Camdin Portis (son of Clinton Portis)
* 4‑star QB Dereon Coleman (Elite 11 finalist)
* Multiple OL and RB commits, blending local and national talent ([themiamihurricane.com][6], [on3.com][1]).
Kennedy fortifies their defensive front, reinforcing Miami’s aim to rebuild a tough, physically dominant line under Mario Cristobal.
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**5. What It Means for Miami**
1. **Defensive Depth & Versatility**
With megatalent like Kennedy, Cantwell, and other front‑seven standouts, the Hurricanes can rotate and adjust formations with authority.
2. **Momentum in Recruiting**
Scoring a big-time DL after capturing Cantwell signifies serious momentum—building excitement and traction for upcoming weekends and more official visits.
3. **Player Development Pipeline**
Miami’s track record of turning d‑line talent into NFL prospects (think Leonard Taylor III, Ru’Bain Bain Jr.) is a selling point Kennedy clearly respected ([reddit.com][7], [caneswarning.com][8], [themiamihurricane.com][6]).
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**6. Looking Ahead**
Kennedy’s arrival sets up big expectations. Over the next year, fans will watch how he transitions to college-level strength and technique, but the tools are all there: size, agility, motor. As he joins a star-studded 2026 haul, Miami is laying the groundwork for a new defensive identity—tough, disruptive, and adaptable.
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**In summary:** Kennedy’s commitment is a signature addition for Miami’s 2026 class. It highlights the Canes’ recruiting clout, defensive strategy, and ability to attract top-tier talent post-decommitment. If he lives up to the buzz, he could start making waves early: Miami is betting big on “Big Country” Kennedy to help rebuild their front line.