The additions in the 2023 signing class and Washington State transfer Francisco Mauigoa have significantly improved the length the Miami football program has at linebacker. None of the returning LBs on the Miami roster are taller than 6’2. All six additions for Miami at LB for 2023 are at least 6’2.
Mauigoa who is 6’3, 219 pounds was graded by Pro Football Focus as the second-best LB in the Pac-12 in 2022, the best at the position in the transfer portal and better than any of the Miami LBs. Mauigoa had 60 tackles, 5.5 TFLs, 3.5 sacks and one interception, two passes defended, three forced fumbles and a recovery in 2022.
Miami signed LBs Malik Bryant, Raul Aguirre, Bobby Washington, Marcellius Pulliam and Kaleb Spencer in the Class of 2023. Bryant who is 6’2, 235 pounds is the highest ranked of the Miami LBs in the class of 2023 as the 103rd player nationally and ninth best prospect at the position.
Mauigoa is projected to compete at MLB with returning starter Corey Flagg who is 5’11, 230 pounds. Adding size on the offensive line and front seven on defense has been a priority for head coach Mario Cristobal since he was hired in December 2021. Aguirre and Bryant are projected with the best chance to contribute as true freshmen.
Cristobal announces Washington State LB Francisco Mauigoa has signed with Miami. Cristobal said he's a top 3 LB in the Pac 12. His brother, of course, is a 5-star OT in this UM class as well.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) December 21, 2022
Spencer who is 6’2.5 could be moved to safety. The Miami football program could potentially add another transfer LB, but defensive tackle and outside wide receivers are the priority. With five LBs signed in the 2023 class plus Mauigoa, Miami has significantly upgraded the depth and length at the position for the future.
Miami lost seniors Caleb Johnson and Waynmon Steed plus fourth-Year redshirt sophomore Avery Huff to the transfer portal from the 2022 roster. Johnson and Steed have been solid contributors. Huff battled injuries and never lived up to his potential as a four-star signee in the class of 2019.
The six newcomers at LB form an excellent corps for Miami at the position for the future with 2022 signee Wesley Bissainthe. Bissainthe had 30 tackles as a true freshman and part-time starter during the 2022 season. Entering the 2023 season, Bissainthe will be a favorite to start at outside LB.