DEPTH: Safety

April 4, 2025

Miami’s defensive backfield was a major liability in 2024. Head coach Mario Cristobal quickly made sweeping changes to the defensive coaching staff. With new coaches on that side of the ball, Miami’s #1 priority is to fix the back-end of the defense. During the off-season, the staff brought in five transfer defensive backs and four freshmen recruits.

Fast forward to spring practice.

From all reports, the talent acquisition looks very positive, particularly at cornerback. However, the jury is still out on the safety positions.

This article will focus on the Canes’ safety room, now coached by Will Harris.

DEPTH CHART:

Zechariah Poyser: Miami landed Zachariah, the #2 safety in the transfer portal, over the winter. He has established himself as one of the Canes starters at safety in spring practice. He’s stepping up in competitive level, so the question still remains, is Poyser ready to play at the Power Four level?

Zaquan Patterson: Zaquan, a talented rising sophomore, navigated his freshman year with a mix of ups and downs as expected. Is he ready to break out in 2025?

Markeith Williams: Markeith, a rising senior, has been a developmental reserve for the Canes. His challenge has been size. Martkeith has talent, but has he grown enough to be competitive at this level?

Jadais Richard: Jades, a rising senior, transferred to Miami in 2023. He has been a solid swingman between corner and safety. Can he step up to take on a bigger role in 2025?

Freshmen:

Bryce Fitzgerald: Incoming freshman Bryce Fitzgerald will arrive on campus this summer. He faces the normal challenges for a freshman, assimilation into college life and adjusting to the speed at the Power Four level. In addition, he needs to build his strength and size to compete on the field.

BOTTOM LINE:

Coming out of spring practice, it appears Miami still lacks proven experience at safety. Look for the Canes to return to the Transfer Portal this spring for experienced depth .

GO CANES!