Freshman Jalen Harrell has a chance to be a part of the rotation at safety for the Miami football team as a true freshman.
Freshman safety Jalen Harrell was the third-highest ranked defensive signee with the Miami football program in 2020. Harrell was the second-ranked safety for Miami in 2020 behind Avantae Williams who was the highest-ranked player the Hurricanes signed in this year’s freshman class.
Harrell should have an opportunity to play in 2020. Williams was lost for the season on Wednesday. Senior Amari Carter and juniors Bubba Bolden and Gurvan Hall return for Miami and will receive most os the snaps at safety in 2020. Harrell is the likely favorite to be the fourth safety in the Miami rotation.
Four safeties signed with Miami in 2020. In addition to four-star additions Williams and Harrell, the Hurricanes added three-star safeties Brian Balom and Keshawn Washington. Harrell is the nation’s 23rd ranked safety in the class of 2020, Washington 34th and Balom 59th. Harrell brings versatility.
In high school, Harrell gained experience at CB and there has been some speculation that he could eventually be moved to striker. Harrell entered Miami at 180 pounds and has already added 20 pounds to his frame working with Hurricanes strength and conditioning coordinator David Feeley.
The depth Miami had at safety in 2018 in addition to the increased emphasis by offenses throwing the football led to the Hurricanes implementing the striker position during spring practice that season. With four safeties signed in 2020 and elite players, Kam Kinchens and James Williams coming in 2021 Harrell could fit at striker.
In 2020 with Williams lost for the season Miami is going to need Harrell at safety. If Bolden, Carter or Williams miss any time this season, Harrell is the most likely to be called on to back up the other two. If none of the freshmen are ready, Sophomore Keontra Smith who switched to striker could pitch in at safety.