In this installment of the Recruit Notebook, we meet a talented LB who is arguably the best player at his position in South Florida and a perfect fit for Miami’s Defense: LB Avery Huff.

Bio

Avery Huff is a talented linebacker who, unlike most other players at this position locally in South Florida, fits the prototypical measurements that teams want. At 6’3” 200lbs, Huff has height and length, and a frame to support more weight — probably up to the 220-230lb range — without sacrificing quickness or athleticism.

Huff began his HS career at Hollywood (FL) McArthur, and was the breakout star on that rebuilding team. Through his first 3 years of HS, Huff made play after play, catching the eye of his opponents and college coaches as well.

As a senior, Huff decided to take his talents to a bigger stage; he transferred to Ft. Lauderdale (FL) St. Thomas Aquinas. The Raiders are one of the best known and highest performing HSFB programs in the country, and adding Huff to an already-talented roster was yet another win for the traditional Powerhouse.

Huff stepped right into the starting lineup for the Raiders, and showcased his many skills throughout the season. Huff helped STA make it to Florida’s 7A State Championship game, where their season ended with a loss to Lakeland.

Even with that being the case, Huff was routinely one of if not the singular best player on the field for Aquinas’ defense. I’ve both heard and seen it reported that multiple College coaches believe Huff to be the best LB in SoFLA, and arguably the State. He has immense talent and incredible untapped potential. If he becomes the player that many people believe he can be, Huff will be a superstar at Miami.

Recruiting Ranking

On the 247sports composite, Huff is a 4-star prospect, the #13 LB nationally in this class, #34 in the State of Florida, and #222 recruit overall.

Huff committed to Miami over a robust list of schools, including Alabama, Florida State, Penn State, and Texas.

As a Player

Huff is a long and lean player at 6’3” 200lbs. He spent a bit of time at Safety early on in his HS career, so he can definitely run. He will need to fill out his lithe, lanky frame in college, but that’s what the Strength and Conditioning program is for.

Huff does well running from sideline to sideline, and can turn and run with TEs up the seam, as well. He is a capable blitzer and could be used in that role as well. The main thing that will need improvement is his ability to take on and shed blocks at the next level, where TEs and OL are much bigger than him, as opposed to the HS level where the size and strength difference is not as glaring.

Strengths

• Height/Length
• Athleticism
• Ability to run
• Coverage

Weaknesses

• Needs to develop strength and muscle
• Block shedding
• Physicality at the point of attack in the run game

2019 Outlook

Whether or not Miami’s starting linebackers return for their senior year, the Canes will need capable backups to give them rest. Additionally, those backups are just a play away from seeing their snap counts dramatically increase, so it is good to have players ready to go.

Chances for a redshirt: 4/10

I think Huff is too physically talented to stay off the field for long. He may be a Special Teams standout at first, but even limited reps in base defense will be key for his future development. There’s always a chance a freshman redshirts, but I think Huff is too talented, and too skilled, to stay on the sidelines for a full season.

That’s it for this installment of The Recruit Notebook.

Go Canes