Breaking news:Miami Shocks College Football with Jackson Cantwell Commitment
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – In a headline-grabbing announcement on May 14, five-star offensive tackle **Jackson Cantwell**, the consensus No. 1 recruit in the Class of 2026, officially committed to the University of Miami, choosing the Hurricanes over Florida, Oregon, Ohio State, and Georgia ([cbssports.com][1]).
The Nixa (Mo.) High School standout, standing at 6-foot-8 and boasting a composite rating of 99.95, held a celebratory ceremony at his high school before announcing his decision. Cantwell’s swap in commitment comes after last-minute interest from Georgia and Oregon, and a recent visit to Athens on May 10 ([cbssports.com][1]).
“As far as impact goes here, on a scale of 1–10, this is a 10,” said Andrew Ivins of 247Sports ([cbssports.com][1]). Cantwell echoed this sentiment, telling On3 that the Hurricanes’ strength in developing top offensive linemen like Penei Sewell and Francis Mauigoa was a significant draw. He also praised Miami’s academic offerings, saying Coral Gables felt like “home” ([athlonsports.com][2]).
Cantwell’s arrival is a game-changing addition for head coach **Mario Cristobal** and offensive-line coach Alex Mirabal, cementing Miami’s reputation for building elite trenches. Recruiting analysts noted that his explosion onto the scene has vaulted Miami’s class into the top 10 nationally, and second in the ACC for 2026 ([athlonsports.com][2]).
The Hurricanes’ offensive line, which returns multiple NFL prospects in 2025, now gains a cornerstone for future seasons. Cantwell’s combination of size, agility, and football IQ is expected to allow him to contribute almost immediately in Coral Gables .
As the nation’s premier tackle prospect, Cantwell’s commitment signals Miami’s renewed rise in recruiting — and its intent to return to national prominence.
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