The 2019 Miami football signing class was 27th in the country. As they enter the 2020 season several sophomores and redshirt freshmen are expected to contribute to the Hurricanes.
Several 2019 Miami football signees contributed as true freshmen. As the Hurricanes enter the 2020 season with an almost entirely new offensive coaching staff led by offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee and several starters to replace on defense, many rising redshirt freshmen and sophomores will have increased roles.
Sophomore left tackle Zion Nelson
The greatest contributions from the first-year players for Miami in 2019 came on the offensive line. Zion Nelson had arguably the greatest contribution of the Miami Freshmen in 2019. Nelson started all 13 games at left tackle. It was a learning experience as the Miami offensive line struggled.
Nelson began his Miami football career as an early enrollee in January 2019 at 240 pounds. After working with strength and conditioning coordinator David Feeley, Nelson is currently up to 273 pounds. He needs to translate the gained muscle mass to better technique and production in 2020.
According to Pro Football Focus via Inside the U, Nelson had 840 snaps at left tackle in 2019. Nelson allowed 12 sacks and 38 quarterback pressures. Nelson was a disciplined player who needs more consistency. Most freshmen that had the troubles Nelson did would have been called for holding frequently.
Nelson was flagged for only two penalties in 2019 as a true freshman starter.
Sophomore right guard Jakai Clark
After not playing in the 2019 season opener against Florida, Jakai Clark started the final 12 games of the Miami football season at left guard. Per PFF, Clark played 779 snaps at right guard. Clark allowed 23 QB pressures and only two sacks. He entered Miami as a center. Clark will likely stay there through 2021.