Commitment Shocker: Cormani McClain commits to Hurricanes
Five-star cornerback Cormani McClain of Lakeland (Fla.) High, who had been trending to Alabama or Florida for months, announced Thursday that he instead would be attending Miami.
McClain, a 6-foot-2, 165 pounder, had not visited Miami this season. He had last been on campus in June. In the meantime he was at Florida twice, fueling speculation that he would commit to the Gators.
The commitment allowed the Hurricanes to rise to the No. 8 spot in the On3 Ream Recruiting Rankings and was a shot in the arm for Mario Cristobal, whose team has struggled to a 3-4 start this season.
The Miami class already includes Francis Mauigoa., the nation’s top offensive tackle. The Hurricanes have their sights on several other top prospects including offensive tackle Samson Okunlola and reclassifed elite corner Desmond Ricks. Miami Central edge rusher Rueben Bain is also believed to be leaning toward Miami.
McClain is the No. 2 overall prospect and No. 1 cornerback in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 1 ranked player in Florida.
At this year’s Under Armour Future 50 Camp, McClain mentioned that “Miami is up there with the other schools, and it’s a great school.” But since that day all signs were pointing to Florida.
McClain’s On 3 scouting summary says McClain ”has the best combination of stature, athleticism and ball skills among cornerback prospects in the 2023 cycle. Measured over 6-foot-1 prior to his junior season and has posted some of the best testing numbers in a combine setting we’ve seen from prospects in his cycle. A twitchy, bouncy athlete with explosive movement patterns. Pairs that athleticism with high end skill on the field. Has proven to be a ballhawk defender with nine interceptions as a sophomore and five picks midway through his junior season. Uses his quickness to stay in-phase with receivers off the line and long speed to turn and run downfield. Highly instinctual and plays fast. Breaks on the ball quickly. Comfortable playing off and press coverage. Doubles as a receiver, which aids in his ball skills and coordination. Would be a four-star type talent at receiver if he chose.”
