And so the list goes on for the Miami Hurricanes.
Following a 21-day commitment drought, the Canes have received a verbal pledge from Bayside High School’s (Palm Bay, FL) Chase Smith, he announced via social media Thursday.
The son of former Hurricanes tight end Willie Smith, the rising senior chose the Coral Gables program over Florida State, Florida and Oklahoma, among others.
“Proud is an understatement to how I feel in my commitment to the University of Miami, he said. I am eager to expand on my fathers legacy at the U. Along with the academic achievements of my late mother, everything I have done has been for you momma.”
Smith, who 247Sports pegs as the No. 14 athlete in the nation, has the capabilities of excelling at any given position.
Last season, Smith, who became Miami’s 10th highest commit in the 2021 recruiting cycle, had 50 receptions for 716 yards and seven touchdowns as a receiver. He also notched 72 tackles, four sacks and four interceptions when lined up on defense.
Still, UM’s staff seems focused on using the 6-foot-3, 190 pounder at the striker spot, according to CaneSport.
Currently led by redshirt sophomore Gilbert Frierson and sophomore Keontra Smith, the Canes remain destined to fill up needed depth at the fairly new position.
Now with the Florida Today All-Space Coast selection, Miami seems to have a core surrounding themselves for years to come.
But what exactly does Smith add?
For starters, he’s “very athletic and long,” South Florida high school recruiting analyst Larry Blustein told 305Sports, who’s had the opportunity to watch Smith – and his father – on multiple occasions.
“While I could see him as a safety because he’s thin, I think he plays a linebacker (striker) type of position,” Bluestein continued. Very athletic. Runs well and could be a difference-maker.
“I watched his Dad play in high school and college – and the one thing that Willie was is something his son is – very smart. Picks things up quickly. He has tremendous hands and is very fluid.”
A tremendous tackler with great awareness and ball skills – considering his play at wide receiver – Smith’s potential weighs limitless. It’s all about fitting him into the right spots.
