Miami (FL) football continues to make waves on the recruiting trail, securing a major early victory for the 2027 class by landing highly touted defensive back Kenton Dopson. The Hurricanes beat out powerhouse programs Florida State and Georgia in the race for the talented in-state prospect, signaling their aggressive approach to future recruiting cycles.
Dopson, a standout at Norland High School in Miami, announced his commitment on Thursday via On3’s Hayes Fawcett, marking a key win for head coach Mario Cristobal and his staff. The 6-foot-1 playmaker, who recorded three interceptions and 16 pass breakups as a sophomore, chose Miami over offers from Florida State, Georgia, Penn State, Texas A&M, South Carolina, Nebraska, and Auburn.
“This is a dream come true, I’m home. Go Canes,” Dopson shared through Fawcett, embracing his future with the Hurricanes.
Dopson’s commitment makes Miami the only ACC program with a 2027 pledge so far. His recruitment was spearheaded by new cornerbacks coach Zac Ethridge, who began building a relationship with the talented defensive back in January. The Hurricanes’ early push paid off, allowing them to secure a top-tier prospect before their rivals could solidify their positions.
Miami has been flexing its recruiting strength in recent months, employing bold strategies such as using a helicopter to visit recruits and making key coaching additions. The hiring of Will Harris, one of the nation’s top defensive back recruiters, has already yielded results, including flipping former Florida commit Jaelen Waters in early March.
While Miami’s 2026 class is still taking shape, the program is ensuring that its future pipeline remains strong. Currently ranked No. 23 nationally in the 2026 cycle, Miami boasts five four-star commitments, including standout linebacker Jordan Campbell and legacy recruit Camden Portis, the son of former Miami and NFL star Clinton Portis.
By securing Dopson this early, Miami is sending a clear message—it is serious about reclaiming its place among college football’s elite. With an aggressive recruiting strategy and a staff capable of landing top-tier talent, the Hurricanes are positioning themselves for long-term success.
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