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Darrion Owens
LB/S - 6'3 220 - Orange Park, Fl (Oakleaf H.S.)
3 or 4 star prospect depending on the recruiting service. Picked Miami over Boston College, Georgia, and Auburn among others.
Runs between a 4.5 and 4.6 40.
Very hard hitter who explodes through the ball carrier when he arrives. Plays with a high motor as well, and appears to have the body type to get even bigger.
Also based on the highlights below, loves to play special teams.
Chances He Redshirts (1-10) - 5
As part of this series we will evaluate if the given newcomer stands a chance to sit out his first season to retain eligibility.
With UM's depth concerns at the LB position, Owens might just see some early action there. And as noted above, he looks like he has a passion for ST, so he could crack the kick off and return teams as well. If the coaching staff decides to move him to the S position, it would make his chances of sitting out much greater, as he learns the intricacies of the position.
Summary: Although I am not completely opposed to developing a Sean Taylor sized safety on the Hurricanes' back end, I am guessing this young man projects to be a pretty ferocious OLB in a year or two. He certainly has a nose for the ball. Worst case Owens is probably going to be quite the force on Miami's special teams during his stay in Coral Gables.
Stay tuned for more Freshman profiles as we count down to Louisville on Labor Day.