The Miami Hurricanes now face the challenge of replacing both of their starting safeties for the upcoming season. Redshirt sophomore safety Jaden Harris has entered the transfer portal, as first reported by 247Sports on Tuesday. Harris started all 13 games for Miami last season, accumulating 40 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and an interception in the season opener against the Florida Gators. With Harris leaving, Miami is now without both of last season’s starting safeties.
Mishael Powell, who transferred to the Hurricanes from Washington to play his final collegiate season, is also departing after leading the team with five interceptions, along with contributing 38 tackles and six pass breakups. Additionally, Miami will lose starting cornerback Daryl Porter Jr., who, like Powell, has exhausted his eligibility after the 2024 season. So, who will step in to fill these gaps? Miami has brought in former Jacksonville State standout Zechariah Poyser through the transfer portal, making him a strong contender for one of the two safety positions.
Poyser recorded 75 tackles, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries this season, boasting an impressive 57.4 passer rating when targeted. Opposing quarterbacks completed 33 of 69 passes in his coverage area for 316 yards (9.6 yards per reception) and three touchdowns.
The 6-foot-2 Poyser has two years of eligibility left. In addition to Poyser, the Hurricanes have underclassmen Zaquan Patterson and Dylan Day who are expected to compete for playing time in 2025. UM has also secured four-star safety Bryce Fitzgerald from Miami Columbus in its 2025 recruiting class. Harris is the second Hurricanes starter to leave through the transfer portal this offseason, joining wide receiver Isaiah Horton.
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