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Miami Freshman Profile: Courtel Jenkins

In an effort to keep even the most hardcore Miami fan up to date on their favorite players, SOTU will be running a Freshman Profile series. In these posts, our writers will profile UM's newcomers for 2014. That way, when the season get's here, you hopefully will have a new found love for the team on the field.

By Jerry Steinberg
24/7 Sports

Courtel Jenkins

DT - 6'2 310 - Jersey City, NJ (DePaul Catholic H.S.)

3 star prospect, who picked the 'Canes over Penn State, Maryland, Pitt, and Michigan among others.

First and foremost is a space eater, but also shows good awareness and solid technique.

Definitely projects as a archetype 3-4 NT at the next level.

Really improved between his junior and senior years in H.S. so his ceiling is unknown.  His only offer prior to Miami was Pittsburgh, but because of his drastic improvement, garnered a lot of late interest.

Chances He Redshirts (1-10)   - 8

As part of this series we will evaluate if the given newcomer stands a chance to sit out his first season to retain eligibility.

Jenkins is college ready in terms of size, his technique, and motor.  But I imagine the coaching staff would like him to shed a few more pounds and get a touch more nimble. If there is one thing I notice that could be improved as well, it is that he needs to get his pad level a touch lower some of the time. Hopefully Michael Wyche, Calvin Heurtelou, and others allow him the luxury to come alone slowly.

Summary: As we have documented more than a few times, DT/NT has been the most scrutinized position on the field for UM over the past few seasons.  So why not take a flier on a late bloomer with high upside? Jenkins may never be a Warren Sapp or Vince Wilfork type, but he certainly can be an effective space eater and a plus player once he adds a little athleticism added to his bulky frame.

More on Jenkins HERE