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20 years later and the leader on the greatest college football team ever assembled is still a game changer for the Hurricanes. When Ed Reed signed as Chief of Staff back in January of 2020, there was much anticipation on his influence with upcoming players. In just over a year, Reed has already made dramatic improvements to a program in need of a comeback.
The Hurricanes landed top prospects at the safety position in the past two recruiting cycles. Here are some of the names.
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Avantae Williams
The 1st ranked overall safety in the 2020 class was a favorite to land with the Florida Gators until Ed Reed stepped in and won the recruiting battle. Williams had 41 total tackles as a senior at DeLand, becoming one of the countries most sought out athletes. Avantae Williams committed to Miami last February, but sat out as a freshman due to medical issues. Expect the highly ranked defensive back to get quality snaps in 2021 when he returns.
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James Williams
For the second year in a row, the Hurricanes landed yet again the number 1 ranked safety in the nation. A coincidence? I think not. James Williams put up monster stats in his senior season at American Heritage recording 74 total tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 fumble recoveries, 2 forced fumbles, and a blocked kick. It came down to a tight race between Miami and Georgia to get Williams which in the end, the Canes were successful. Georgia yearly has a top 5 recruiting class and competing with them is tough, however Reed’s influence was a key factor in the race.
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Kamren Kinchens
Another 2021 commit in safety Kam Kinchens, will be the future alongside Williams at defensive back. Kinchens was the 23rd ranked safety out of Miami Northwestern and had an impressive 74 tackles and 9 interceptions as a senior. Kinchens is one of the most underrated players in Miami’s loaded 2021 recruiting class, and with Ed Reed there to develop him, Canes fans should be excited for what’s to come.
Miami will have another chance to hit big with top safety prospect, Five-Star and number 1 ranked safety Kamari Wilson announcing he will be committing soon. The Canes could be potential favorites to land Wilson based off experts.
Miami should take notes of Reed’s impact as a coach, and possibly look to hire other former Cane stars in the future...