Former LSU EDGE commit DeAnthony Lafayette commits to Miami

DeAnthony Lafayette has found his home. The four-star edge rusher from Orlando (Fla.) Lake Nona has committed to Miami, choosing the Hurricanes over Florida State after previously being pledged to LSU.

The No. 41 EDGE in the 2026 class, Lafayette initially committed to LSU over Oklahoma in July but reopened his recruitment after Brian Kelly’s departure. Once that happened, Miami quickly surged to the top of his list.

“I was back there this weekend, and I’ve known I was going to Miami for a little bit now,” Lafayette told Rivals. “I chose Miami over Florida State after the change at LSU.”

Lafayette pointed to Miami’s defensive staff, especially defensive line coach Jason Taylor, as the biggest reason for his commitment.

“Coach Taylor was a big part of my decision. He’s one of the best coaches in the country. Look at what he’s doing with players at Miami — he’s a great coach who can really develop players.”

“Coach Hetherman is a great defensive coordinator,” Lafayette added. “I like his scheme and he was part of my decision. Coach Cristobal is a great coach as well. A lot of the coaches were recruiting me; they’re very personable, and that really stood out.”

Miami’s approach made a lasting impression throughout the process.

“They stayed consistent. The staff at Miami kept recruiting me and kept making me feel important. They were very real with me through everything.”

Lafayette, who has now visited Coral Gables three times, said his most recent trip for the Syracuse game only reaffirmed what he already knew.

“I knew before this visit it was going to be Miami. I stayed patient with LSU, and the coaches were real with me, so I made the best decision.”

With his commitment complete, Lafayette plans to sign in December and enroll early in January.

“I really like Miami’s defensive style,” Lafayette said. “Being coached by Coach Taylor was another key reason I chose them. The opportunity to be developed was another one.

“Coach Cristobal is working hard to get Miami back to the top, and I 100% believe he will do it.”

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