The 2024 recruiting class has significantly elevated the status of the Miami Hurricanes football program, with impressive additions showcasing speed, size, and versatility. Among the recruits, six stand within the top 100, and a total of nine are positioned in the top 200, according to the final 247 recruiting rankings.
Leading the list at #11 is Justin Scott, a defensive tackle from Chicago (Ill.) St. Ignatius, who brings essential size and natural athleticism to bolster the defensive trenches. Scott, standing at 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds, is expected to contend for early playing time.
Marquise Lightfoot, an edge defender from Chicago (Ill.) Kenwood Academy, holds the #34 spot. Demonstrating commitment to strength and conditioning, Lightfoot offers more than just pass-rushing skills, with his hustle and tenacity earning recognition from the coaching staff.
Armondo Blount, ranked at #39 and hailing from Miami (Fla.) Central, is a unique pass rusher known for overpowering opponents with natural strength and utilizing first-step quickness to navigate through gaps. Blount’s versatility may contribute to both defensive end and defensive tackle positions.
Zaquan Patterson, the 63rd recruit from Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna, is noted for his intelligence, positioning him to play a role in various defensive packages near the line of scrimmage and in the deep secondary.
Joshisa Trader, positioned at #70 and also from Chaminade-Madonna, stands out as a wide receiver with exceptional hands, capable of navigating press coverage effectively. Trader’s skills make him a potential early contributor in flanker or slot roles.
Adding speed to the roster is Ny Carr at #98, hailing from Moultrie (Ga.) Colquitt County. Recognized as one of the nation’s fastest players, Carr poses a big-play threat in return situations and as a receiver, making significant gains on reverses, jet sweeps, and screens.
Booker Pickett, Jr., from Tampa (Fla.) Wharton, emerges as the #142 player, showcasing versatility by contributing four sacks in key games. Pickett is expected to play as a linebacker for the Canes while occasionally engaging in edge plays.
Elija Lofton secures the #180 spot, providing the Hurricanes with a hybrid tight end capable of lining up in various positions such as fullback, H-back, tight end, or even as a wide receiver. Lofton’s experience at Las Vegas (Nev.) Bishop Gorman’s offense positions him as an early contributor.
Closing the list at #184 is Chance Robinson, a wide receiver from Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) St. Thomas Aquinas. Known for being one of the nation’s premier deep threats, Robinson’s combination of strength and speed makes him a valuable asset capable of challenging defenses and contributing as a blocker in run and screen plays.
