Miami’s making moves in the portal. For the 2025 class, the commitment of Carson Beck ensured that a post-Cam Ward life won’t be as disruptive as imagined. However, even with Ward, Mario Cristobal’s team struggled on defense, allowing teams to run through them, leaving their QB1 little time to mount a comeback every game. Naturally, the Miami head coach is focused on improving his defensive output. The 2025 class has commitments from players like Amari Wallace, Chris Ewald, and Jaboree Antoine. The transfers of Ethan O’Connon, Emmanuel Karnley, and Charles Brantley have been made to have depth in the secondary. However, it’s not just about the 2025 class. Cristobal is also planning for the future.
Miami is making a serious push for a 2026 four-star Florida CB commitment. Locked into Florida since June, this talented prospect is now at the heart of a fierce in-state rivalry. Miami is coming strong, with 2025 signees Kellan Wiley and Girard Pringle Jr.—his former Seffner Armwood teammates—playing a major role in the effort. With 28 offers on the table, this 4-star athlete is drawing serious attention.
The elite prospect? Meet Jaelen Waters—a 4-star prospect with next-level potential. Ranked No. 26 in Florida and No. 15 at cornerback, he’s also No. 159 overall. According to On3, he’s the second-best player in Florida for 2026. If Waters joins Miami, he will become the second-highest-ranked recruit in their 2026 class. This game-changer could elevate Miami’s recruiting to new heights.
But Waters is still verbally committed to the Florida Gators, and he’s made it clear—Florida is his No. 1 choice, with Miami sitting at No. 2. However, the game isn’t over yet. According to a recent Locked on Canes YouTube video, Miami has been giving Waters a lot to think about.
Host Alex Donno revealed that Waters, a lifelong Gators’ fan, “has been hearing from his former high school teammates—who now play for the Hurricanes, encouraging him to flip from Florida to Miami.” We already know about two of these Miami players – RB Girard Pringle Jr. and LB Kellan Wiley – who were Waters’ teammates at Seffner, Armwood.
Even if Waters flips, there’s no denying his obsession with Miami. Why? During his visit this weekend, Waters told Inside The U, “Everything went good. I just met with DB coach Zac Etheridge and Miami’s defensive coordinator. Etheridge made a great impression. We went through film and talked about how he could work with me as a player. He’s a really good coach.”
On Corey Hetherman, Waters added, “It’s real good. Me and him have been having great conversations, watching film together.” Miami’s making waves, and Waters is taking notice.
The plot thickens. Despite being committed to Florida, Waters keeps making trips—mostly to Miami. And that’s got Billy Napier on edge. He’s already visited Florida State twice and Miami once. But here’s the twist: Florida State had Waters’ commitment from April 23 to May 30, 2024. Now, the in-state battle is on fire. Miami and Florida are fiercely competing for this 4-star cornerback. It’s not over yet—this recruitment is packed with drama. Keep your eyes on this one.
Will Miami benefit from getting the CB?
Waters is a standout. The two years he spent in high school, he recorded 33 tackles, 1 for loss, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. Receivers on the other team will have a tough time stopping him thanks to his height and weight of 170 pounds and 6-2 frame. Among the 2025 Miami defensive backs who are physically similar to him, his 6-2 frame is matched only by Damari Brown and Dylan Day.
And Locked on Canes host had some insider info. Not long ago, they sat down with Brian Smith, the recruiting expert with deep ties in Tampa. Smith’s been all over Waters, and here’s what he had to say: “This kid can change directions on a dime. He’s over six feet tall and packed with muscle. He’s put in serious work in the weight room.” Miami’s biggest need? Cornerbacks—and defensive backs in general. Waters would walk in and compete physically right away. And Miami could really use a talent like this.
Don’t sleep on Miami. However, Waters is also getting offers from the biggest powerhouses. Oregon, USC, LSU, Alabama, Colorado, Michigan—the list goes on. The competition is fierce. Now, the real question: where will this standout cornerback take his official visits? With so many top programs in the mix, it’s difficult to predict where Waters will end up. Stay tuned—this recruitment just got a whole lot more exciting.
The post 4-Star High School Athlete With 28 Offers Sparks Fierce In-State Rivalry Battle Between Miami, Florida, & FSU appeared first on EssentiallySports.
